Aimia Press Releases

The Rise of the Savvy Shopper

Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Aimia advises marketers to unlock the optimum loyalty formula to build strong connections with savvy consumers

16th May 2013: Aimia, the global loyalty group behind the Nectar programme, has launched its latest white paper ‘The rise of the savvy shopper; the impact of the recession on customer loyalty’.

The paper takes a detailed look at how consumers have changed their shopping behaviour and values in response to the recession. It acknowledges that while the traditional approach of rampant promotions and steep discounting can drive short-term results during a tough economic climate, today’s consumer also wants to be rewarded and recognised for its loyalty.

The white paper reviews attitudinal and transactional research carried out by Aimia among 2,000 UK consumers. It has found that a new breed of consumer: the ‘savvy shopper’ has emerged.

Key findings include:

64% of UK shoppers are actively using reward programmes
78% admit to collecting points whenever they can
66% say they always use vouchers or coupons when shopping
77% are more careful with money than they used to be

The research reveals that consumers now expect brands to work harder for their loyalty and demonstrates how many brands have subsequently adjusted their value propositions to build loyalty in response to these new consumer norms.

Marketers must therefore recognise that today’s consumer has evolved and the route to true loyalty has become harder to navigate. They must fundamentally change the way they build loyalty with these newly discriminating consumers, leveraging shopper data and insight to understand customers better, and use the tools of loyalty management to influence behaviours and build lasting relationships.

Aimia’s analysis shows that it’s largely down to the marketer to unlock a data-focussed optimum loyalty formula, bespoke to each marketer’s organisation. In addition, Aimia offers the following ten top tips for marketers which set out how to use reward, recognition and loyalty programmes to build real relationships with today’s savvy shoppers:

Design rewards to appeal to specific behaviour segments
By understanding which behaviour segments make up your customer base, you can design rewards to appeal to their needs.
Avoid drastic programme changes
When evolving your reward programme, tread carefully. Roll out changes over time, and give your customers enough time to absorb the shock.
Use data to personalise
Personalise customer interactions by using your customer data to create shopper profiles and identify likely next purchases.
Empower your frontline staff
If customers experience problems, make sure your frontline staff have the training and authority to offer real-time solutions.
Use data to get closer to your customers
Target your marketing directly to customers rather than through third-party channels.
Rectify and reassure in real time
Hearing what consumers have to say about your business on social media channels is an effective way for you to check your business is delivering on its brand promises.
Make your customers feel like individuals
A ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to customer relations is no longer relevant or appropriate.
Invest in long-term customer value
Investment in loyalty comes not solely from quarterly impact, but from customer lifetime value. Use data and customer insight to drive profitable behaviour change over the long term, and the compounding effect of your loyalty investment will pay dividends over time.
Aspire to be more than just a loyalty programme
Make your loyalty programme more distinctive, connect your brand with new and exciting experiences to create true value and stand-out.
This is no time for ease and comfort
The world of consumers and businesses is changing. While we have seen the UK consumer adapt to the new retail landscape and become savvier, some businesses have been left behind. For these businesses, the time to adapt and do things differently is now.

Maria Sealey, Director of Research Services at Aimia, comments:
“While the recession has forever altered the way consumers evaluate brands and make purchase decisions, the fundamental rules of customer loyalty still apply. The new ‘savvy shoppers’ expect savvier marketers - and to build relationships with them, marketers must focus on the basic loyalty drivers while using data science and customer insight to deliver targeted combinations of reward and recognition. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach; instead marketers must make the best use of data available to them to tailor their efforts accordingly.”

The white paper is launched following the announcement of Nectar Savvy Family 2013 earlier this week. With more consumers changing their shopping behaviour in response to the recession, there are now even more families searching for advice on how to be money-savvy. The Abell family from Oakham, were crowned the UK’s savviest family by Nectar Savvy Family, as they successfully captured consumer imagination with many clever and unusual money-saving hint and tips throughout the year.

Notes to editors
The full report can be viewed here: http://www.aimia.com/files/doc_downloads/Aimia_Insights_RiseSavvyShopper.pdf

Media contacts

Aimia
Megan Ratcliffe, Aimia, 020 7152 4881 or megan.ratcliffe@aimia.com

Fishburn Hedges
Risha Parmar, Fishburn Hedges, 020 7544 3050 or risha.parmar@fishburn-hedges.com
Tom Morris, Fishburn Hedges, 020 7839 4321 or tom.morris@fishburn-hedges.com

About Aimia
Aimia is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program, Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program and Nectar Italia. In addition, Aimia has a majority equity position in Air Miles Middle East as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in merchant-funded transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking.

Aimia is a Canadian public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM) and has over 3,800 employees in more than 20 countries around the world. For more information about Aimia, please visit www.aimia.com.

Aimia announces new partnership in India with Axis Bank

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:00:00 -0400

INDIA, May 16, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM), a global leader in loyalty management, announced today its partnership with Axis Bank, India's third largest private sector bank, launching its bank-wide customer loyalty program: eDGE Loyalty Rewards.

Aimia's India office designed and deployed the program in partnership with Axis Bank, and will be responsible for its on-going management.

Akash Sahai, Managing Director India, Aimia, said: "We are delighted to be working with Axis Bank on their loyalty program which will allow the bank to use customer insights and targeted communications to build ongoing relationships with its customers. Aimia has been strengthening its presence in India and Axis Bank's confidence in Aimia is testament to that."

The eDGE Loyalty Rewards program is available to customers that maintain certain savings account and card relationships with the bank, and will cover a third of the bank's customer base. Customers can easily register for the program at edgerewards.axisbank.com, and once registered will earn loyalty points on account opening, debit and credit card shopping transactions, and on transactions across electronic channels. Customers will also earn points if they hold some other products from the bank, making the overall relationship more rewarding.

Manisha Lath Gupta, Chief Marketing Officer, Axis Bank said: "The eDGE Loyalty Rewards have evolved from our brand promise of being a true 'partner in progress' for our customers. While we continue to design and develop new products and services that meet our customers' needs, eDGE Loyalty Rewards will make various transactions, purchases and interactions far more rewarding for the customer and the bank. The vast range of rewards and friendly online experience should further drive engagement and bonding with our customers."

In India, Aimia manages loyalty, CRM and analytics programs for several reputed brands, including the Taj Hotels and Axis Bank.

About Aimia

Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Employing more than 4,000 people in over 20 countries worldwide, Aimia offers clients, partners and members proven expertise in launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, delivering proprietary loyalty services, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital, mobile and social communications spaces.

Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia owns stakes in Air Miles Middle East, Nectar Italia, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program Club Premier, Brazil's Prismah Fidelidade, and i2c, a joint venture with Sainsbury's offering insight and data analytics services in the UK to retailers and suppliers. Aimia also holds a minority position in Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking. Aimia is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM). For more information, visit Aimia at www.aimia.com

About Axis Bank

Axis Bank is the third largest private sector bank in India. Axis Bank offers the entire spectrum of services to customer segments covering Large and Mid-Corporates, SME, Agriculture and Retail Businesses.

With its 1,947 domestic branches (including extension counters) and 11,245 ATMs across the country, as on 31st March 2013, the network of Axis Bank spreads across 1,263 cities and towns, enabling the Bank to reach out to a large cross-section of customers with an array of products and services. The Bank also has overseas offices in Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Colombo, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The Bank's website www.axisbank.com offers comprehensive details about its products and services.

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352-3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Analysts
Karen Keyes
647-459-3506
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Aimia Announces Election of Directors

Tue, 14 May 2013 23:51:00 -0400

TORONTO, May 14, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM) announced that the nominees listed in the management information circular dated March 15, 2013 were elected as directors of Aimia. The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors held at its Annual Meeting earlier today in Toronto are set out below.

Each of the following 10 nominees proposed by management was elected as a director of Aimia:

Nominee	Votes For	% Votes For	Votes Withheld	% Votes Withheld
Robert E. Brown Chairman	132,980,623	94.98	7,034,365	5.02
Roman Doroniuk	139,353,304	99.53	661,684	0.47
Rupert Duchesne	140,005,931	99.99	9,057	0.01
Joanne Ferstman	139,354,743	99.53	660,245	0.47
Hon. Michael M. Fortier , PC	140,007,826	99.99	7,162	0.01
John M. Forzani	140,009,794	99.99	5,194	0.01
Beth S. Horowitz	139,354,122	99.53	660,866	0.47
David H. Laidley, FCPA, FCA	139,352,610	99.53	662,378	0.47
Douglas D. Port	140,008,841	99.99	6,147	0.01
Alan P. Rossy	139,065,479	99.32	949,509	0.68

Final voting results on all matters voted on at the Annual Meeting held earlier today will be published shortly on www.aimia.com , and filed with the Canadian securities regulators.

About Aimia

Media
Krista Pawley
416- 352 3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Karen Keyes
514-205-7163
karen.keyes@aimia.com

/R E P E A T -- Media Advisory - Aimia to Hold Annual Meeting of Shareholders Tuesday May 14, 2013

Tue, 14 May 2013 09:00:00 -0400

MONTREAL, May 2, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) will hold its Annual Meeting of Shareholders on Tuesday, May 14, 2013.

Date:		Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Time:		11:00 a.m. ET

Location:		St Andrew's Club and Conference Centre,
		150 King Street, 27th Floor
		Toronto, Ontario
		M5H 1J9

By Telephone:		1-888-231-8191 and 647-427-7450
		Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:		English: http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1153963/1259929
		French: http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1153965/1259933

		This is a listen-only audio webcast. Windows Media Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:		An archived audio webcast will be available at http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:		A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the webcast will be available the morning of May 14, 2013 at http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Presentations/default.aspx.

Media Briefing:		Media are invited to attend, but only shareholders may ask questions during the meeting. A briefing for media will be held immediately following the meeting.

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352-3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Analysts
Karen Keyes
647-459-3506
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Super, Savvy Savers Win Title

Tue, 14 May 2013 09:00:00 -0400

The Abell family from Oakham win national money-saving competition

Beating thousands of families, the Abell family from Oakham have triumphed to be crowned the UK’s savviest family. They win the title after showcasing their money-saving talents in the national Nectar Savvy Family competition.

The Abell family were originally selected to go head to head with seven other frugal families in a blogging competition. For five weeks, the families kept thousands of readers updated at nectar.com/savvy with advice on how they save money on everything from shopping and days out to holidays and household bills. The Abells were deemed the most creative and ‘savvy’ when it comes to saving money, offering the most beneficial advice for other cost conscious consumers in the UK.

Mum, Julie, comments, “Taking part in the Nectar Savvy Family competition has been fun for the entire family and we’re so excited to be rewarded for our money-saving efforts. With seven of us to feed and clothe we’ve always considered ourselves to be a savvy family, but competing against so many other resourceful families encouraged us to go the extra mile and become even more inventive with our ideas.”

With fears that a triple-dip recession could still be on the horizon, more and more families are searching for advice on how to be money-savvy. The Abell family’s blog proves a handy resource for top tips on how to get the most out of your money. Some of their money-saving advice includes:

When the seat handle on my car broke off I knew exactly where to get a new one - the scrapyard - 50p! Being a five car family means that we have to be savvy when it comes to repairs. We are lucky my granddad is a mechanic and can help us with anything serious, but even small repairs can be expensive if you are not savvy.
Make your own heat packs - It took me five minutes to run a ½ inch seam around a piece of old blanket. We then used a funnel to fill it with rice and I hand stitched the corner. Less than 10 minutes later I was relaxing with my home-made heat bag, you can fill some with rice, flaxseed and wheat using home grown lavender and herbs to scent them.
Head to the market at the end of the day – we found bowls of fruit and veg reduced from £1 each to three bowls for only £1 - a great saving. Buying your fruit and veg this way makes a real saving on the family shop, especially when there are seven of you in the household.

The blogs were judged by a panel that included property developer and television presenter Sarah Beeny, who also wrote her own savvy blog on how her family make their money go further (see blog at nectar.com/savvy).

Sarah says: “The standard of the finalists’ blogs was really high and, through judging the competition, I’ve learnt lots of innovative tips to help save money for my family. The Abells proved to be a cut above the competition and wholly deserve to be crowned the 2013 Nectar Savvy Family winners. Writing my own blog during the competition has helped me to be extra-savvy and my family is going to keep using all of the tips we’ve picked up throughout the process. Being money-savvy is so simple these days; there’s really no excuse. It’s amazing what a few simple changes can do to make your money go further!”

Fellow judge, Nectar’s Marketing Director, James Frost, adds: “This has been a great year for the Nectar Savvy Family competition and the panel were blown away by the dedication and innovative tips from our finalists. The blogs offer sound advice on how to face the tough economic climate and demonstrate that it’s still possible to have fun on a tight budget.”

As well as being crowned Nectar Savvy Family 2013, the Abell family has also been rewarded with a fantastic haul of goodies for the whole family to enjoy from Nectar and its partners including:

Four easyJet flights
£500 to spend on eBay
£500 gift card from Sainsbury’s
£500 from BP to spend on fuel
£500 gift card from Bella Italia
A year's cover from British Gas on a Home Care policy
A 32inch Smart LED TV from American Express
£500 Nectar eShops prize package
£500 Vision Express gift card
100,000 Nectar points

First established in 2009 in response to the UK's economic downturn, Nectar Savvy Family has captured consumer imagination and established loyal followers with thousands of clever and unusual money-saving hints and tips being offered and shared.

To read all the Nectar Savvy Family blogs, which are live on the website, visit nectar.com/savvy.

For further information contact Katy Jameson, Stuart Henshall or
Emma Scott at Clarion Communications
T: 0207 343 3142/3209 E: nectar.team@clarioncomms.co.uk

Notes to editors:

The winning family:

The Abell Family, from Leicestershire
The Oakham-based Abell family consists of software manager mum, Julie, electrician dad, Woody, an elderly parent, Eric, and their four children. Julie is already a blogger for her business and her partner is an avid Nectar card user. The Abells are proud of their ability to successfully feed seven heads on a weekly budget of £100. They believe it is their savvy lifestyle that enables them to live full lives on a low income.

Other Nectar Savvy Family finalists:

The Evans family, from Merseyside
The Abell Family, from Leicestershire
The Sutherland family, from Paisley
The Harris family, from Hereford
The Wylie family, from Lincoln
The Humphrey family, from Devon
The Barton family, from Nottingham
The Harris family, from London

About Nectar:
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

In 2012, Nectar celebrated 10 years of rewarding British shoppers and has given back £2billion of rewards to collectors, including money off shopping, travel, days out and cinema tickets.

19 million collectors earn Nectar points when shopping for groceries, doing DIY, booking a holiday, paying household bills, buying petrol and even getting their car serviced. Collectors also earn Nectar points every time they shop online via nectar.com at over 500 leading online retailers.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com.

Aimia Announces Renewal of its Normal Course Issuer Bid

Mon, 13 May 2013 18:00:00 -0400

MONTREAL, May 13, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) announced today that it has received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange respecting the renewal of its normal course issuer bid to purchase for cancellation up to 17,212,126 of its common shares, or 10% of the public float of 172,121,269 common shares as at May 13, 2013, through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange and through alternative trading systems (such as Alpha ATS), or by other means as may be permitted by the TSX, such as prearranged crosses, exempt offers and block purchases, during the period from May 16, 2013 to no later than May 15, 2014. Aimia may also purchase common shares for cancellation by way of private agreements under an issuer bid exemption order issued by a securities regulatory authority. Purchases made on the open market through the facilities of the TSX and alternative trading systems will be at the prevailing market price at the time of acquisition. Purchases made by way of private agreements under an issuer bid exemption order issued by a securities regulatory authority will be at a discount to the prevailing market price as provided in the exemption order. As at May 13, 2013 there were 172,466,957 common shares issued and outstanding.

The average daily trading volume on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the past six months was 605,248 common shares. Under the regulations of the Toronto Stock Exchange, a maximum daily repurchase of 25% of this average may be made, representing 151,312 common shares. In addition, Aimia may make, once per week, a block purchase (as such term is defined in the TSX Company Manual) of common shares not directly or indirectly owned by insiders of Aimia, in accordance with the regulations of the Toronto Stock Exchange. The common shares purchased pursuant to the normal course issuer bid will be cancelled.

The Board of Directors of Aimia has concluded that the repurchase of common shares represents an appropriate use of funds to increase shareholder value, as the underlying value of Aimia may not be reflected in the market price of its common shares from time to time.

From May 16, 2012 to May 13, 2013, Aimia did not purchase any of its common shares pursuant to its current normal course issuer bid.

About Aimia

Aimia ("Aimia" or the "Corporation") is a global leader in loyalty management. Employing more than 4,000 people in over 20 countries worldwide, Aimia offers clients, partners and members proven expertise in launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, delivering proprietary loyalty services, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital, mobile and social communications spaces.

Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia owns stakes in Air Miles Middle East, Nectar Italia, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program Club Premier, Brazil's Prismah Fidelidade, and I2C, a joint venture with Sainsbury's offering insight and data analytics services in the UK to retailers and suppliers. Aimia also holds a minority position in Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking. Aimia is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM). For more information, visit us at www.aimia.com.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-looking statements are included in this news release. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Such statements may involve but are not limited to comments with respect to strategies, expectations, planned operations or future actions.

Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are based on assumptions and are subject to important risks and uncertainties. Any forecasts, predictions or forward-looking statements cannot be relied upon due to, among other things, changing external events and general uncertainties of the business and its corporate structure. Results indicated in forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results for a number of reasons, including without limitation, dependency on top accumulation partners and clients, conflicts of interest, greater than expected redemptions for rewards, regulatory matters, retail market/economic conditions, industry competition, Air Canada liquidity issues, Air Canada or travel industry disruptions, airline industry changes and increased airline costs, supply and capacity costs, unfunded future redemption costs, failure to safeguard databases and consumer privacy, changes to coalition loyalty programs, seasonal nature of the business, other factors and prior performance, foreign operations, legal proceedings, reliance on key personnel, labour relations, pension liability, technological disruptions and inability to use third party software, failure to protect intellectual property rights, interest rate and currency fluctuations, leverage and restrictive covenants in current and future indebtedness, uncertainty of dividend payments, managing growth, credit ratings, as well as the other factors identified in this news release and throughout Aimia's public disclosure record on file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities.

The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Aimia's expectations as of May 13, 2013, and are subject to change after such date. However, Aimia disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352 3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Karen Keyes
514-205-7163
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Aimia declares dividends

Mon, 13 May 2013 17:54:00 -0400

MONTREAL, May 13, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM) announced today that the Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.17 per common share, payable on June 28, 2013 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2013.

The Board has also declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.40625 per Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series 1, payable on June 28, 2013 to the holders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2013.

Dividends paid by Aimia to Canadian residents on both its common and preferred shares are "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes.

About Aimia

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352-3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Analysts
Karen Keyes
647-459-3506
karen.keyes@aimia.com

AIMIA reports first quarter 2013 financial results

Mon, 13 May 2013 17:50:00 -0400

Consolidated top line reflects 7 per cent growth in Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units

Increases annual common dividend by 6.25 per cent to 68 cents per share

Consolidated Gross Billings growth of 4.6 per cent benefits from EMEA's strong quarter
Announced increase in Nectar Italia ownership to 100 per cent
Renewed Normal Course Issuer Bid
Maintaining 2013 outlook


FIRST QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS¹	Three Months Ended March 31,		Quarter Over Quarter
(in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)	2013	2012 ²	% Change
	As Reported		As Reported	Constant Currency
Gross Billings	561.1	536.6	4.6	4.6
Total Revenue	609.5	567.7	7.4	7.3
Net Earnings	45.7	44.7	2.3	na
Earnings per Common Share	0.22	0.24	(8.3)	na
Adjusted EBITDA	82.8	89.0	(6.9)	(6.9)
Free Cash Flow before Dividends Paid	(9.5)	18.3	(152.1)	na

¹	Non-GAAP measures (Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow) and constant currency are explained on pages 6 and 7 in the section entitled Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information. Discrepancies in variances may arise due to rounding.
²	2012 financial information was restated to reflect the retroactive application of the amendments to IAS 19. Refer to Note 2 of Aimia's Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended March 31, 2013 for additional information.

MONTREAL, May 13, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - (TSX: AIM) Aimia today reported its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2013. All financial information is in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

"This quarter our consolidated top line was bolstered by a solid increase in the Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units, which represents nearly three-quarters of our total Gross Billings," said Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive. "In particular, the EMEA region was very strong in the first three months of this year. We are on track for 2013 and look forward to many successes in the balance of the year across our global operations, including Canada with respect to the negotiation of our financial partner contract renewals."

Added Duchesne, "The dividend is an important facet of Aimia's value creation for shareholders. Our announcement today of a more than 6 per cent increase in our annual common share dividend, together with the renewal of our Normal Course Issuer Bid, further underscores our ongoing commitment to shareholders."

First Quarter Financial Highlights (Period ended March 31, 2013 versus period ended March 31, 2012)

Consolidated - Strong top line driven by Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units

Gross Billings in the first quarter of 2013 increased by 4.6 per cent to $561.1 million versus the first quarter of 2012, driven by a 7.1 per cent increase in Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units.
First quarter Adjusted EBITDA was $82.8 million, a decrease of 6.9 per cent in 2013 compared to the same quarter in 2012.

Canada - Solid margins with gross margin (before depreciation and amortization) of 45 per cent and Adjusted EBITDA margin as a percentage of Gross Billings of 29 per cent

First quarter Gross Billings were $307.1 million compared with $313.2 million in the same period of 2012, a decrease of 2.0 per cent.
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units amounted to $256.6 million compared to $261.7 million in the first quarter of 2012, representing a decrease of 2.0 per cent.
The decrease is mostly explained by a reduction in accumulation at Air Canada relating to changes in the accumulation grid. This was offset in part by an increase in the financial sector driven by higher partner program conversions and a higher number of active credit cards, despite the lower average consumer spend per active credit card.
Adjusted EBITDA was $89.1 million in the first quarter, a decrease of 8.7 per cent compared to the same period in the prior year.
Total Aeroplan Miles redeemed were stable period-over-period. The increased burn earn rate, which is typically higher in the first quarter, is explained by a 1.5 per cent decrease in Aeroplan Miles issued in the quarter.
Aeroplan is seeing good momentum in commercial partner signings, most recently with Birks, Miele, The UPS Store and Teleflora, the world's leading flower delivery service.
In the first quarter of 2013, proprietary loyalty in Canada won new clients in travel and retail and successfully renewed its largest financial service client for a multi-year period.

Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) - An exceptional quarter

First quarter Gross Billings were $173.7 million, representing an increase of 20.8 per cent or 21.0 per cent on a constant currency basis compared to the same period of 2012. This increase was mainly due to an increase in Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units in the Nectar UK Program, driven by the grocery sector and new sponsor billings and from the benefit of the new contract terms initiated with the program's main sponsor in the second quarter of 2012. Additionally, Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units in the Air Miles Middle East program increased by $16.8 million due to new contract terms, including funding provided by the program's main sponsor to support enhanced member engagement.
Adjusted EBITDA of $17.4 million in the quarter grew by $13.4 million in comparison to the first quarter of 2012 with increased volumes driving improvements in operating leverage and sponsor funding related to supporting enhanced engagement.
Nectar UK Points issued in the first quarter of 2013 increased by 19.5 per cent compared to the same period in the prior year, with higher issuance in the grocery sector, as well as growth from new sponsors.
Redemption activity for Nectar UK increased by 15.4 per cent in the quarter mainly driven by an increase in the number of Nectar Points in circulation.
A more difficult economic environment in Italy saw points issuance decrease by 13.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the first quarter of 2012 due to a decrease in promotional activity. Nectar Italia points redeemed decreased by 5.5 per cent in comparison to the same period of 2012.
Air Miles Middle East Loyalty Units issued during the three months ended March 31, 2013 increased by 32.3 per cent in comparison to the same period in the prior year, mostly due to program growth due to new contract terms with the program's main sponsor. Redemption activity in the Air Miles Middle East program increased significantly due to promotional activity to enhance member engagement as part of the new contract terms.
Other Gross Billings amounted to $17.0 million, a decrease of $2.6 million or 13.3 per cent compared to 2012. The decrease is primarily explained by the fact that, effective the first quarter of 2013, a large portion of the ISS UK Gross Billings is now reported within the i2c joint venture. The decrease was partially offset by growth in Gross Billings from ISS' international activities.
On March 19, 2013, Aimia announced that it will take full control of the Nectar Italia coalition loyalty program, acquiring the remaining 25 per cent stake currently held by Banque Accord S.A. The purchase price consideration of approximately €7 million ($9 million) will be paid on completion, which is expected by the end of June. An additional contingent consideration, for an amount to be determined, may be paid within the next two years, based on the performance of the program. Over the three years since its launch in March 2010, Nectar Italia has signed up more than 10 million members and has 14 sponsor partners today.
On March 13, 2013, Nectar UK was notified of the UK Supreme Court ruling on its outstanding Value Added Tax (VAT) litigation. While the ruling was in our favour, the Supreme Court asked for further written submissions from both Aimia EMEA Limited and Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs to fully determine the case. Management expects the UK Supreme Court to make its final judgment during the second quarter of 2013.

US & Asia Pacific - Tracking for growth with addition of Excellence in Motivation (EIM)

First quarter Gross Billings of $80.6 million were flat compared to the same period in 2012 both on a reported and a constant currency basis. Gross Billings for the region included $10.2 million from EIM, which was acquired in September 2012, offset by a decrease of $7.2 million related to the exit of the Qantas business. This represents the last comparative quarter of the Qantas exit.
First quarter Adjusted EBITDA amounted to ($3.7) million compared to $1.8 million in the same period of 2012. This includes $1.0 million in deferred compensation and integration costs related to EIM, start-up costs related to a contract in Asia and business development costs in the U.S.

Premier Loyalty & Marketing, S.A.P.I. de C.V. (PLM)

PLM, the owner of Club Premier, reported Gross Billings of $36.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2013 compared to $33.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2012, an increase of 7.7 per cent.
Club Premier continues to build out the coalition program with the addition of retail and international hotel brand partners during the quarter.

Cash Flow and Financial Position
At March 31, 2013, Aimia had $476.9 million of cash and cash equivalents, $29.5 million of restricted cash, $15.4 million of short-term investments and $312.6 million of long-term investments in bonds, for a total of $834.4 million.

Aimia's Free Cash Flow (before dividends paid) was ($9.5) million for the first quarter of 2013 compared to $18.3 million for the first quarter of 2012. This was primarily due to a decrease in cash from operating activities, explained by higher cost of rewards and direct costs and operating expenses, offset in part by an increase in Gross Billings of $24.5 million, lower income taxes paid and lower capital expenditures. The unfavourable variance is also explained by changes to operating assets and liabilities driven by the timing of accounts receivable collection and accounts payable payments and inventory levels returning to normalized levels in Canada.

Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB)
Aimia received approval today from the Toronto Stock Exchange respecting the renewal of its NCIB to purchase up to 17,212,126 of its issued and outstanding common shares during the period from May 16, 2013 to May 15, 2014. As at May 13, 2013 there were 172,466,957 common shares issued and outstanding.

Dividends
On May 13, 2013, the Board of Directors approved a 6.25 per cent increase to the dividends payable on the Corporation's common shares to $0.68 per common share per year, or $0.17 per common share per quarter.

Common Share Dividend Declared
The Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.17 per common share, payable on June 28, 2013 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2013.

Preferred Share Dividend Declared
The Board also declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.40625 per Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series 1, payable on June 28, 2013 to the holders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2013.

Dividends paid by Aimia to Canadian residents on both its common and preferred shares are "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes.

2013 Outlook

Aimia has no revisions to the 2013 annual guidance provided in its February 27, 2013 earnings press release.

For the year ending December 31, 2013, Aimia currently expects to report the following:


Consolidated Outlook
	2012 Actual	2013 Target Range
Gross Billings	$2,243.0 million	Growth of between 3% and 5%
Adjusted EBITDA	$402.6 million	To approximate $425 million
Free Cash Flow before dividends	$299.5 million	Between $255 and $275 million
Capital Expenditures	$58.0 million	To approximate $70 million
Income Taxes	Canadian income tax rate of 26.2%	Current income tax rate is anticipated to approximate 27% in Canada. The Corporation expects no significant cash income taxes will be incurred in the rest of its foreign operations.


Business Segment Gross Billings Growth Outlook
	2012 Actual	2013 Target Range
Canada	$1,292.6 million	Between 1% and 3%
EMEA	$639.9 million	Between 5% and 7%
US & APAC	$315.2 million	Above 5%

The above guidance excludes the effects of fluctuations in currency exchange rates. In addition, Aimia made a number of economic and market assumptions in preparing its 2013 forecasts, including assumptions regarding the performance of the economies in which the Corporation operates and market competition and tax laws applicable to the Corporation's operations. The Corporation cautions that the assumptions used to prepare the forecasts for 2013, although reasonable at the time they were made, may prove to be incorrect or inaccurate. In addition, the above forecasts do not reflect the potential impact of any non-recurring or other special items or of any new material commercial agreements, dispositions, mergers, acquisitions, other business combinations or other transactions that may be announced or that may occur after May 13, 2013. The financial impact of these transactions and non-recurring and other special items can be complex and depends on the facts particular to each of them. We therefore cannot describe the expected impact in a meaningful way or in the same way we present known risks affecting our business. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our expectations as set forth in this news release. The outlook provided constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and should be read in conjunction with the "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" section.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
In order to provide a better understanding of the results, the following indicators are used:

Adjusted Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization
EBITDA adjusted for certain factors particular to the business, such as changes in deferred revenue and Future Redemption Costs ("Adjusted EBITDA"), is used by management to evaluate performance, and to measure compliance with debt covenants. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA assists investors in comparing the Corporation's performance on a consistent basis without regard to depreciation and amortization and impairment charges, which are non-cash in nature and can vary significantly depending on accounting methods and non-operating factors such as historical cost. Adjusted EBITDA also includes distributions and dividends received from equity-accounted investments.

Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement based on GAAP, is not considered an alternative to operating income or net income in measuring performance, and is not comparable to similar measures used by other issuers. For a reconciliation to GAAP, please refer to the Summary of Consolidated Operating Results and Reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Earnings and Free Cash Flow included in the attached schedule. Adjusted EBITDA should not be used as an exclusive measure of cash flow because it does not account for the impact of working capital growth, capital expenditures, debt repayments and other sources and uses of cash, which are disclosed in the statements of cash flows.

Adjusted Net Earnings
Adjusted Net Earnings provides a measurement of profitability calculated on a basis consistent with Adjusted EBITDA. Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation are adjusted to exclude Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology, share of net earnings (loss) of equity accounted investments and impairment charges. Adjusted Net Earnings includes the Change in deferred revenue and Change in Future Redemption Costs, net of the income tax effect and non controlling interest effect (where applicable) on these items at an entity level basis. Adjusted Net Earnings also includes distributions and dividends received from equity-accounted investments.

Adjusted Net Earnings is not a measurement based on GAAP, is not considered an alternative to net earnings in measuring profitability, and is not comparable to similar measures used by other issuers. For a reconciliation to GAAP, please refer to the Summary of Consolidated Operating Results and Reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Earnings and Free Cash Flow included in the attached schedule.

Standardized Free Cash Flow ("Free Cash Flow")
Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP measure recommended by the CICA in order to provide a consistent and comparable measurement of free cash flow across entities of cash generated from operations and is used as an indicator of financial strength and performance.

Free Cash Flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities, as reported in accordance with GAAP, less adjustments for:

	(a)	total capital expenditures as reported in accordance with GAAP; and

	(b)	dividends, when stipulated, unless deducted in arriving at cash flows from operating activities.

For a reconciliation to cash flows from operations please refer to the Summary of Consolidated Operating Results and Reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Earnings and Free Cash Flow included in the attached schedule.

EBITDA and Free Cash Flow are non-GAAP measurements recommended by the CICA in accordance with the recommendations provided in their October 2008 publication, Improved Communications with Non-GAAP Financial Measures - General Principles and Guidance for Reporting EBITDA and Free Cash Flow.

Constant Currency
Because exchange rates are an important factor in understanding period to period comparisons, the presentation of various financial metrics on a constant currency basis or after giving effect to foreign exchange translation, in addition to the reported metrics, helps improve the ability to understand operating results and evaluate performance in comparison to prior periods. Constant currency information compares results between periods as if exchange rates had remained constant over the periods. Constant currency is derived by calculating current-year results using prior-year foreign currency exchange rates. Results calculated on a constant currency basis should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, results reported in accordance with GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.

Q1 2013 Conference Call / Audio Webcast
Aimia will host a conference call to discuss its first quarter 2013 financial results at 8:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, May 14, 2013. The call can be accessed by dialing 1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450 for the Toronto area. The call will be simultaneously audio webcast at: http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1059049/1151287

A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of Monday, May 13, 2013 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx and an archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

The consolidated financial statements, the MD&A and a financial highlights presentation will be accessible on the investor relations website at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

CSR Report

Our social purpose aims to bring people together, inspiring innovative ideas that create economic, environmental and social value for our stakeholders. To view Aimia's Corporate Social Responsibility Annual Report for 2012, please go to: http://www.aimia.com/English/Social-Purpose/CSR-Reports/default.aspx.

About Aimia

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

SUMMARY OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS AND RECONCILIATION OF EBITDA, ADJUSTED EBITDA, ADJUSTED NET EARNINGS AND FREE CASH FLOW


			Three Months Ended March 31,		%?
(in thousands of Canadian dollars , except share and per share information)			2013	2012 ^(f)	Q1
Gross Billings			561,115	536,636	4.6
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units			413,349	385,984	7.1
Total revenue			609,503	567,725	7.4
Cost of rewards and direct costs			(353,408)	(322,396)	9.6
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization ^(a)			256,095	245,329	4.4
Depreciation and amortization			(10,320)	(8,462)	22.0
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			(20,307)	(20,795)	(2.3)
Gross margin			225,468	216,072	4.3
Operating expenses			(153,313)	(140,816)	8.9
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			20,307	20,795	(2.3)
Operating income before amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			92,462	96,051	(3.7)
Depreciation and amortization			10,320	8,462	22.0
EBITDA ^(a)(c)			102,782	104,513	(1.7)
Adjustments:
Change in deferred revenue
		Gross Billings	561,115	536,636
		Revenue	(609,503)	(567,725)
	Change in Future Redemption Costs ^(b)		28,421	15,553
		(Change in Net Loyalty Units outstanding x Average Cost of Rewards per Loyalty Unit for the period)
Subtotal of Adjustments			(19,967)	(15,536)
Adjusted EBITDA ^(c)			82,815	88,977	(6.9)
Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			40,527	45,378
Weighted average number of shares			172,283,597	173,820,140
Earnings per common share ^(d)			0.22	0.24
Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			40,527	45,378
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			20,307	20,795
Share of net (earnings) loss of equity-accounted investments			1,722	(1,155)
Adjusted EBITDA Adjustments (from above)			(19,967)	(15,536)
Tax on adjustments ^(e)			6,936	6,633
Non-controlling interests share on adjustments above			110	(223)
Adjusted Net Earnings^(c)			49,635	55,892	(11.2)
Adjusted Net Earnings per common share ^(c)(d)			0.27	0.31
Cash flow from operations			(452)	30,970
Capital expenditures			(9,085)	(12,656)
Dividends			(30,392)	(28,905)
Free Cash Flow ^(c)			(39,929)	(10,591)	(277.0)
Total assets			5,162,271	4,839,171
Total long-term liabilities			1,695,017	1,320,157
Total dividends per preferred share			0.406	0.406
Total dividends per common share			0.160	0.150

(a)		Excludes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.

(b)		The per unit cost derived from this calculation is retroactively applied to all prior periods with the effect of revaluing the Future Redemption Cost liability on the basis of the latest available average unit cost.

(c)		A non-GAAP measurement.

(d)		After deducting dividends declared on preferred shares.

(e)		The effective tax rates, calculated as income tax expense / earnings before taxes for the period on an entity level basis, are applied to the related entity level adjustments noted above.

(f)		2012 financial information was restated to reflect the retroactive application of the amendments to IAS 19. Refer to Note 2 of Aimia's Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended March 31, 2013 for additional information.

SEGMENTED INFORMATION

At March 31, 2013, the Corporation had three reportable and operating segments: Canada, EMEA and US & APAC. The table below summarizes the relevant financial information by operating segment:


		Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)		2013	2012^(g)	2013		2012		2013		2012		2013	2012	2013	2012	2013		2012^(g)
Operating Segments		Canada		EMEA				US & APAC				Corporate^(b)		Eliminations		Consolidated
Gross Billings		307,117	313,237	173,746	^(c)	143,869	^(c)	80,558	^(c)	80,914	^(c)	—	—	(306)	(1,384)	561,115	^(c)	536,636	^(c)
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units		256,604	261,732	156,745		124,252		—		—		—	—	—	—	413,349		385,984
Revenue from Loyalty Units		320,814	320,483	140,290		97,732		—		—		—	—	—	—	461,104		418,215
Revenue from proprietary loyalty services		38,820	40,291	3,719		4,155		80,528		78,011		—	—	—	—	123,067		122,457
Other revenue		12,017	11,954	13,315		15,099		—		—		—	—	—	—	25,332		27,053
Intercompany revenue		—	9	69		80		237		1,295		—	—	(306)	(1,384)	—		—
Total revenue		371,651	372,737	157,393		117,066		80,765		79,306		—	—	(306)	(1,384)	609,503		567,725
Cost of rewards and direct costs		202,780	194,437	106,413		84,091		44,215		43,957		—	—	—	(89)	353,408		322,396
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization		168,871	178,300	50,980		32,975		36,550		35,349		—	—	(306)	(1,295)	256,095		245,329
Depreciation and amortization ^(a)		23,817	23,234	4,038		3,906		2,772		2,117		—	—	—	—	30,627		29,257
Gross margin		145,054	155,066	46,942		29,069		33,778		33,232		—	—	(306)	(1,295)	225,468		216,072
Operating expenses before the undernoted		54,379	57,102	39,227		35,484		39,994		35,129		16,154	11,408	(306)	(1,295)	149,448		137,828
	Share-based compensation	—	—	—		—		—		—		3,865	2,988	—	—	3,865		2,988
Total operating expenses		54,379	57,102	39,227		35,484		39,994		35,129		20,019	14,396	(306)	(1,295)	153,313		140,816
Operating income (loss)		90,675	97,964	7,715		(6,415)		(6,216)		(1,897)		(20,019)	(14,396)	—	—	72,155		75,256
Adjusted EBITDA ^(f)		89,070	97,526	17,415		4,019		(3,651)		1,828		(20,019)	(14,396)	—	—	82,815		88,977
Additions to non-current assets ^(d)		5,311	8,805	3,370		2,494		404		1,357		—	2,273	N/A	N/A	9,085		14,929
Non-current assets ^(d)		3,170,935	3,239,959	451,357	(e)	460,939	(e)	77,014	(e)	42,341	(e)	2,199	2,152	N/A	N/A	3,701,505	(e)	3,745,391	(e)

(a)		Includes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.

(b)		Includes expenses that are not directly attributable to any specific operating segment. Corporate also includes the financial position and operating results of our operations in India, the investments in PLM, Prismah and Cardlytics.

(c)		Includes third party Gross Billings of $133.4 million in the UK and $54.3 million in the US for the three months ended March 31, 2013, compared to third party Gross Billings of $119.1 million in the UK and $46.1 million in the US for the three months ended March 31, 2012. Third party Gross Billings are attributed to a country on the basis of the country where the contractual and management responsibility for the customer resides.

(d)		Non-current assets includes amounts relating to goodwill, intangible assets and property and equipment.

(e)		Includes non-current assets of $402.2 million in the UK and $70.7 million in the US as of March 31, 2013, compared to non-current assets of $409.6 million in the UK and $35.9 million in the US as of March 31, 2012.

(f)		A non-GAAP measurement.

(g)		2012 financial information was restated to reflect the retroactive application of the amendments to IAS 19. Refer to Note 2 of Aimia's Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended March 31, 2013 for additional information.

Media
Krista Pawley
416- 352 3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Karen Keyes
514-205-7163
karen.keyes@aimia.com

/R E P E A T -- Media advisory - Aimia to present 2013 first quarter results/

Mon, 13 May 2013 09:30:00 -0400

MONTREAL, April 29, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) will issue its first quarter 2013 financial results during the evening of Monday, May 13, 2013. On Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at 8:00 a.m. ET, Aimia will hold its quarterly conference call and webcast during which time Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive, and David Adams, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will discuss the results and address questions from analysts. Media and interested participants may access this call on a listen-only basis. The details of the conference call are as follows:

Date:		Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Time:		8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET

By telephone:		1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450
		Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:		English -
		http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1059049/1151287

		French -
		http://www.newswire.ca/fr/webcast/detail/1059051/1151291

		Note: this is a listen-only audio webcast. Media Player or Real Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:		An archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:		A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of May 13, 2013 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

Media:
Krista Pawley
416-352-3794, krista.pawley@aimia.com

Investor Relations:
Karen Keyes
647-459-3506, karen.keyes@aimia.com

Aeroplan and The UPS Store Deliver New Partnership for Members

Mon, 06 May 2013 09:30:00 -0400

Members can now earn miles on all their business needs

Montreal, QC, May 6, 2013 – Aeroplan today announced it has entered into a multi-year agreement with The UPS Store Canada, the largest franchised network of retail shipping, print and business service centres in Canada. This agreement will enable Aeroplan Members to earn Aeroplan Miles in an additional retail category that focuses on small and medium business owners who have need for courier, packaging, mail box and printing services.

Starting today, members will be able to earn 1 mile per $1 spent at more than 360 participating stores across Canada. In addition, members who sign up for a The UPS Store Get More card will also receive:

1.5 miles for every $1 spent (to a maximum of $1,000)
500 miles for sign up

“We’re excited to partner with The UPS Store, whose network of stores are a neighbourhood resource for many small businesses and individuals in Canada,” said David Houston, Vice President, Partnerships, Aeroplan. “This relationship builds upon our commitment to not only broaden the scope of our program but provides members, including owners of small and medium size businesses in communities across the country with the opportunity to earn Aeroplan Miles on their daily business activities.”

“Franchisees of The UPS Store work with small businesses every day. Our new relationship with Aeroplan gives these small business customers one additional way to run their operations more effectively and efficiently when they do business with The UPS Store in their neighbourhood,” said David Druker, President of The UPS Store Canada. “In addition, Aeroplan offers the opportunity for a valued recommendation from a trusted source to its members to experience the truly amazing customer connection and service that our franchise network and The UPS Store brand has to offer.”

For more information, please visit: www.aeroplan.com.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

In 2012, approximately 2.3 million rewards were issued to members including more than 1.5 million flights on Air Canada and Star Alliance carriers which offer travel to more than 1,000 destinations worldwide. In addition to flights, members also have access to over 1,000 exciting specialty, merchandise, hotel, car rental and experiential rewards.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

About The UPS Store
In October 2012, The UPS Store brand celebrated its 7th anniversary in Canada, although the network has been servicing small businesses in Canada since 1988 under the brand name Mail Boxes Etc. The franchise concept originated in the United States, and was brought to Canada in 1988 when the master license for the Mail Boxes Etc. brand was purchased from MBE Head Office in San Diego, CA. The chain rebranded to The UPS Store on October 3, 2005.

Currently there are over 360 The UPS Store locations in neighbourhoods across Canada offering support to small business. Among the many services offered are: black and white and colour copying; document finishing, including binding and laminating; worldwide courier services; packaging services; digital output; fax services; business printing; computer and graphic services; 24-hour private mail and parcel receiving; email and internet access; computer rentals; office supplies.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com

Michelle Cameron
The UPS Store Canada
905-338-9754
mcameron@theupsstore.ca

Media Advisory - Aimia to Hold Annual Meeting of Shareholders Tuesday May 14, 2013

Thu, 02 May 2013 09:30:00 -0400

MONTREAL, May 2, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) will hold its Annual Meeting of Shareholders on Tuesday, May 14, 2013.

Date:		Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Time:		11:00 a.m. ET

Location:		St Andrew's Club and Conference Centre,
		150 King Street, 27th Floor
		Toronto, Ontario
		M5H 1J9

By Telephone:		1-888-231-8191 and 647-427-7450
		Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:		English: http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1153963/1259929
		French: http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1153965/1259933

		This is a listen-only audio webcast. Windows Media Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:		An archived audio webcast will be available at http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:		A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the webcast will be available the morning of May 14, 2013 at http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Presentations/default.aspx.

Media Briefing:		Media are invited to attend, but only shareholders may ask questions during the meeting. A briefing for media will be held immediately following the meeting.

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352-3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Analysts
Karen Keyes
647-459-3506
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Aeroplan and Teleflora Blossom with New Partnership

Wed, 01 May 2013 09:30:00 -0400

Montreal, QC, May 1, 2013 – Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty company and Teleflora, the world’s leading flower delivery service announced today an agreement that will enable Aeroplan Members to earn miles through flower purchases online at www.teleflora.com/aeroplan or through Teleflora’s contact centre at 1-800-493-6512. Teleflora has more than 15,000 member florists that can deliver throughout Canada and the United States.

“We are thrilled to enter into this relationship with Teleflora and further expand the range of retail offers for our premium members,” said David Houston, Vice President, Partnerships, Aeroplan. “Sending a floral arrangement is the perfect gift for every occasion throughout the year and this new partnership will allow our members a chance to earn even more miles when shopping for that special someone in their lives.”

Starting today, members can earn 10 miles for every $1 spent on any bouquet from Teleflora. In addition, to celebrate the launch of this partnership, Aeroplan Members can earn 150 bonus miles on each purchase until June 30, 2013.

“Teleflora is excited to collaborate with Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program,” said Jeff Bennett, President, Teleflora. “Aeroplan understands customer loyalty and their premium members expect nothing but the best from their retail partners. Teleflora is the trusted national vendor for flower delivery and we are committed to offering customers the highest quality of floral arrangements delivered to your door fully-arranged, ready to enjoy.”

For additional information, or to place an order, Aeroplan Members can visit: www.teleflora.com/aeroplan or call 1-800-493-6512.

About Teleflora
Teleflora is the world’s leading flower delivery service connecting customers with the nation’s best local florists for more than 75 years. All of Teleflora’s flower arrangements are artistically arranged and hand-delivered in keepsake vases using only the freshest flowers available through its member florist network. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Teleflora has over 15,000 member florists throughout the U.S. and Canada, with an additional 20,000 affiliated florists outside North America. Through its extensive member florist network, Web sites including www.teleflora.com and www.findaflorist.com, and its toll-free line 1-800-TELEFLORA, the company offers consumers fast, convenient and high-quality flowers and keepsake products.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

In 2012, approximately 2.4 million rewards were issued to members including more than 1.5 million flights on Air Canada and Star Alliance carriers which offer travel to more than 1,000 destinations worldwide. In addition to flights, members also have access to over 1,000 exciting specialty, merchandise, hotel, car rental and experiential rewards.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com

Missy Miller
Teleflora
310-966-8328
mmiller@teleflora.com

Media advisory - Aimia to present 2013 first quarter results

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:30:00 -0400

Date:		Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Time:		8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET

By telephone:		1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450
		Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:		English -
		http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1059049/1151287

		French -
		http://www.newswire.ca/fr/webcast/detail/1059051/1151291

		Note: this is a listen-only audio webcast. Media Player or Real Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:		An archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:		A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of May 13, 2013 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

Media:
Krista Pawley
416-352-3794, krista.pawley@aimia.com

Investor Relations:
Karen Keyes
647-459-3506, karen.keyes@aimia.com

Aimia Global Privacy Officer To Speak At IAPP Data Protection Conference

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0400

Jeremy Henderson-Ross, Aimia’s Global Privacy Officer, is to speak at the annual conference of the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), on 25 April in London.

The conference, which has an educational ethos and is focused on the very latest developments in data protection, takes place over three days (23 – 25 April). Jeremy will be speaking as part of a panel during the session entitled: Profiling: maximising the value of data at the expense of freedom? He will be joined on the panel by Eduardo Ustaran, Partner and Head of the Privacy and Information Law Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse and Billy F. Hawkes, Data Protection Commissioner of Ireland.

Jeremy has held the role of Legal Director and General Counsel for Aimia in EMEA since 2005 and has recently expanded his brief to include the role of Global Privacy Officer.

Having spearheaded Aimia’s work in the field of data protection and privacy, Jeremy has represented the company on the UK government’s midata initiative and authored white papers on the topic of data and privacy including a paper setting out Aimia’s data values and exploring how customer data can be seen as a renewable resource: aimia.com/KnowledgeCentre.

In the session on 25 April, the three speakers will explore how to regulate and comply with data protection law in the context of profiling. They will discuss the benefits and risks of data analytics and individual targeting and latest insights in this area.

Jeremy Henderson-Ross said:

“Data is a growing industry and one that is no longer uniquely relevant to a niche group of professionals. Many businesses need to think about handling data responsibly while making sure that they generate appropriate commercial benefits from the information they hold on their customers. Key to this is being transparent with consumers about why and how you use their data. I’m looking forward to sharing Aimia’s perspectives on this debate with a wide range of representatives from government and industry at the conference.”

About Aimia
Aimia Inc. (“Aimia”) is a global leader in loyalty management. Employing more than 4,000 people in over 20 countries worldwide, Aimia offers clients, partners and members proven expertise in launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, delivering proprietary loyalty services, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital, mobile and social communications spaces.

Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia owns stakes in Air Miles Middle East, Nectar Italia, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program Club Premier, Brazil’s Prismah Fidelidade, and i2c, a joint venture with Sainsbury’s offering insight and data analytics services in the UK to retailers and suppliers. Aimia also holds a minority position in Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking. Aimia is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM). For more information, visit us at www.aimia.com

For more information, please contact:

Megan Ratcliffe
020 7152 4881
megan.ratcliffe@aimia.com

Aeroplan Welcomes Premium Appliance Company Miele to the Program

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:30:00 -0400

Members can celebrate with an exclusive launch offer - 10,000 miles on all Appliances

Montreal, QC, April 19, 2013 – Aeroplan today announced it has entered into an agreement with Miele, the world’s largest family-owned and operated appliance company of high quality domestic appliances. This agreement will enable Aeroplan Members to earn Aeroplan Miles in an additional retail category of upscale, premium products available at Miele.ca and all authorized Miele Chartered Agents nationwide.

Each month, members can take advantage of new impressive mile offers on Miele appliance purchases. Visit the Earn Miles – Our Partners section on aeroplan.com for more details. Starting today until May 31st, members will be able to earn 10,000 miles on all qualifying appliances such as Miele Dishwashers, Laundry appliances & Cooking products. In addition, members who purchase Miele’s CM5200 Barista freestanding coffee system will be able to earn 10,000 miles. The CM5200 Barista freestanding coffee system is also available in Aeroplan’s redemption portfolio on aeroplan.com where members can use their miles for the product.

“We’re thrilled to be adding Miele to the Aeroplan program. Miele has distinguished itself in the premium appliance market as a provider of world-class household products,” said David Houston, Vice President, Partnerships, Aeroplan. “This relationship will enable our members to gain additional opportunities for earning Aeroplan Miles with an exclusive and renowned global brand.”

“Our motto at Miele since our inception in 1899 is Immer Besser – the German for Forever Better. Beyond our world class products, we also continue to strive and deliver additional services and offerings that meet our consumers’ needs and we strongly believe this partnership with Aeroplan will allow us to accomplish this,” said Kelly Lam, Vice President of Marketing, Miele Ltd. “We feel that there are many synergies between both of our brands and at the end of the day, this partnership will benefit both of our consumers. We are extremely happy to join the Aeroplan family.”

Stay tuned each month for more Miele products offering Aeroplan Miles.

For more information, please visit: www.aeroplan.com.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

TV Board Rooms Spur a New Generation OF Female Entrepreneurs

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Celebrity entrepreneurs and successful women are role models for wannabe female bosses

The city and big business has traditionally been dominated by men, with women making up only a fraction of key roles – however, with the influence of strong businesswomen in the media and on TV, things could be set to change as new research shows that 65% of UK women aspire to start their own businesses and become the boss.

TV shows such as The Apprentice, Dragon’s Den and The Intern increasingly feature successful businesswomen and it seems these could be inspiring the entrepreneurial spirit of British women.

The study, which has been conducted to launch the 5th Nectar Business Small Business Awards, shows that the desire of would-be-women-entrepreneurs to start their own business has increased by 10% compared to five years ago – indicating the determination of women to challenge the status quo.

With still only two FTSE 100 companies boasting female CEOs, the research conducted amongst 2,900 UK adults shines a positive light on the determination of the UK businesswoman with 53% of women wanting to start their business online and 63% prepared to turn a current hobby into cash, such as setting up a craft / jewellery store (11%) or tea and coffee shop (6%). The main reasons these women gave for wanting to run their own small businesses were; making their own money (45%), being their own boss (44%) and wanting to have more control over their time (46%).

Long standing businesswomen such as Hilary Devy from The Dragons Den, lingerie boss, Michelle Mone and West Ham Vice Chairwoman and Nectar Business Small Business Awards judge, Karren Brady also appear to be strong role models with their high profile personalities and regular appearances in the media. Indeed, their hard work ethic is reflected in the study with 30% of women saying they are willing to put in 20 hours or more per week - outside of their usual job - to get their business off the ground.

Nectar Business Small Business Awards judge and leading UK businesswomen, Karren Brady comments: “I’m a real advocate of women in business and I think it’s really promising that so many British women have these high aspirations. Starting my business was the best decision I ever made and I would encourage anyone who has a business dream and believes they have sufficient tenacity, self-motivation and drive to make it successful, to give it a go.

“I have met many fantastic female entrepreneurs over the past two years judging the Nectar Business Small Business Awards, and I really enjoy being able to recognise and reward fellow business women’s hard work. I’m really looking forward to meeting this year’s entrants and I hope that this year the 10% increase in women wanting to start their own business is reflected in the number of entrants and the calibre of their businesses.”

The Nectar Business Small Business Awards are open for all small businesses until 30th April 2013 and are free to enter at www.nectar-business.com/sba2013. Winners will receive £2,000, 50,000 Nectar points and an invite to the Nectar Business Round Table with Karren Brady where they will be able to ask The Apprentice star for her business advice.

Contact
Niall Hughes on 020 7343 3228 and clarionnectarbusiness@clarioncomms.co.uk

Notes to editors

Data:

Poll of 2,926 people in the UK by Nectar March 2013

ONS Mid-2010 Population Estimates – over 16 years of age

About the Nectar Business Small Business Awards 2013

The Nectar Business Small Business Awards 2013 provide small businesses with the opportunity to gain the rewards and recognition they deserve
The Categories include:

Small Business of the Year
Start Up of the Year (Under one year trading)
Innovation of the Year
Entrepreneur of the Year
Tradesperson of the Year
Contribution to the Community

Awards 1-5 are judged by a panel of experts which include Karren Brady, 2012 winner Chris Li, David Hughes of Brakes and James Frost of Nectar Business
The sixth award, the Contribution to the Community award, will be open to public vote at facebook.com/nectarbusiness
Entering is simple - just visit www.nectar-business.com/sba2013 and download an entry form
Entries close 30 April 2013
The winners of the Nectar Business Small Business Awards will receive £2,000 and 50,000 Nectar points
Case studies of the 2012 Nectar Business Small Business Awards winners are available upon request

About Nectar Business

Launched in January 2005, Nectar Business has over 600,000 business collectors
Nectar Business partners include: Viking, Dulux Decorator Centres, Brakes, BOC, Hertz, American Express and DHL Express
Collect points online with over 500 retailers - including Argos, trainline.com, Dell, Currys, McAfee, Pixmania and easyJet
Other Nectar partners include: eBay, Sainsbury’s, BP, Homebase, British Gas, Ford, Vision Express

Customers Bag Nectar Points for Oxfam Donations

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0400

UK’s largest loyalty programme and international charity team up to reward customers for quality donations

Today, the UK’s largest loyalty programme, Nectar, and international development charity, Oxfam, announce an exciting new partnership which will see customers being able to collect Nectar points on items they donate to Oxfam shops. The initiative, which is the first of its kind, aims to raise millions of pounds for Oxfam’s work fighting poverty around the world.

From Thursday 4th April customers who sign up to Tag Your Bag, Oxfam’s Gift Aid scheme (Gift Aid allows charities to reclaim the 25% tax on donations by UK taxpayers), will be able to earn two points for every £1 their donated items raise when sold in Oxfam shops or online.* Customers will also receive 100 points when they first sign up. This not only acts as a useful incentive to drive much-needed quality donations to Oxfam, whether it be books, music, clothing or homewares, but it also provides Nectar collectors with a great way in which to earn further Nectar points.

James Frost, Nectar Marketing Director, says: “We’re delighted to be announcing this exciting new phase in our partnership with Oxfam, where customers will now be able to earn Nectar points on items that they donate to Oxfam through Tag Your Bag. Not only does this provide our customers with a great way in which to boost their points balances, it is also a valuable incentive to drive much needed, quality donations to Oxfam.

“Given the hugely positive response to the first phase of our partnership, Oxfam Unwrapped, we’re confident that this new initiative will be similarly well received by our customers.”

Sarah Farquhar, Head of Retail Brand at Oxfam, says: “We’re so pleased to announce this latest phase of Oxfam’s partnership with Nectar. Oxfam is always looking for good, quality donations and this initiative will enable us to engage with an entirely new audience. Collecting Nectar points in this way is exclusive to Oxfam and we are aiming to raise millions of pounds from the scheme, which will go a long way in supporting Oxfam’s vital work fighting poverty around the world.”

Customers can sign up to Tag Your Bag in an Oxfam shop or by visiting www.oxfam.org.uk/tagyourbag. They will receive a welcome pack which includes the all-important tags (pictured right) which must be attached to the bag of donated goods before being dropped at an Oxfam store.

Oxfam will process all donations, adding a unique code to each item to ensure that sales can be tracked back to the individual donor, allowing points to be rewarded if and / or when an item is sold in store or through Oxfam’s online shop.

First launched in September 2012, the partnership with Oxfam has to date allowed Nectar collectors to spend their points on gifts through Oxfam Unwrapped - Oxfam’s poverty busting gift ideas that help to change lives around the world.

This latest addition to the partnership is part of Nectar’s continued drive to encourage positive behaviour change, building on existing opportunities for collectors to earn points for reusing carrier bags at Sainsbury’s, switching to paperless billing with British Gas or recycling with Birmingham City Council.

For more information please contact the Nectar PR team on:

Sophie Bowell in the Oxfam Press Office e: sbowell@oxfam.org.uk t: 01865 472254 / 07810 814 980

* Two points for every £1 raised on sales of items (including gift aid) will be collected. Only items that sell, either in an Oxfam shop or through Oxfam’s online shop, will be eligible to collect Nectar points

Notes to Editors:

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

In 2012, Nectar celebrated 10 years of rewarding British shoppers and has given back £2billion of rewards to collectors, including money off shopping, travel, days out and cinema tickets.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

About Oxfam
Oxfam is a global humanitarian, development and campaigning organisation working with others to overcome poverty and suffering. Since its Oxford-based beginnings in 1942, it has grown into a worldwide force. Oxfam is now working in nearly 60 countries on a diverse range of projects, from providing emergency water sources to supporting community health projects.

Oxfam has nearly 700 high street shops across the UK selling donated fashion, books, music, homewares and new ethical products. It is supported by a workforce of 22,000 volunteers. Oxfam also launched the UK’s first online charity shop in 2007.

About Oxfam Tag Your Bag
The Tag your Bag initiative (known as Gift Aid on donated items) ensures Oxfam can claim additional funds on all individual items donated and then sold in its stores.

Oxfam's Tag your Bag scheme means that every time we sell something Oxfam can raise 25% more from the government through Gift Aid.

Gift Aid is a scheme run by HM Revenue and Customs that allows charities like Oxfam to reclaim the tax on donations by UK taxpayers.

There are 22 stores in the Oxfam shop network that are unfortunately not able to take part in the Tag Your Bag scheme.

For more information please visit www.oxfam.org.uk/tagyourbag

TV Presenter Laura Whitmore Launches New Donation Scheme Between Nectar and Oxfam

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 10:00:00 -0400

Tag Your Bag initiative rewards customers with Nectar points for quality donations

TV presenter and style icon, Laura Whitmore kicked off a brand new partnership between Nectar, the UKs largest loyalty programme, and international development charity, Oxfam, which will allow customers to collect Nectar points on items they donate to Oxfam*. The initiative, which is the first of its kind, aims to raise millions of pounds for Oxfam’s work fighting poverty around the world.

From Thursday 4 April, customers who sign up to Tag Your Bag, Oxfam’s Gift Aid scheme, will be able to earn two Nectar points for every £1 their donated items raise when sold in Oxfam stores, along with 100 Nectar points just for signing up to the Tag Your Bag initiative.

Donating a bag of her own items at the Oxfam shop in Hampstead, North London, Laura said: “I think this is a great new initiative and I’ll definitely be clearing out my house more frequently from now on. Oxfam relies on good donations, and with the launch of Tag Your Bag, not only are we able to do our bit to help, we also get a little something back from Nectar. I’d really like to encourage everyone to delve deep into their cupboards to find quality items they no longer need or want and donate these through Tag Your Bag to help Oxfam to continue its crucial work.”

Dresses donated by Laura, including a lemon sixties-style mini-dress will be available for the public to bid on via the Oxfam eBay site, www.ebay.co.uk/oxfam, from 10am on 4 April.

Customers can sign up to Tag Your Bag in an Oxfam shop or by visiting www.oxfam.org.uk/tagyourbag. They will receive a welcome pack which includes the all-important tags which must be attached to the bag of donated goods before being dropped at an Oxfam shop. All quality donations are welcomed as part of this initiative including books, music, clothing and homewares.

James Frost, Nectar Marketing Director, added: “We’re delighted to be announcing this exciting new phase in our partnership with Oxfam, one which we hope will help increase much needed donations to the charity. We are always looking at new ways for our card holders to earn points, and Tag Your Bag provides a unique and charitable way to do just that.”

This latest addition to the partnership is part of Nectar’s continued drive to encourage positive behaviour change, building on existing opportunities for card holders to earn points for reusing carrier bags at Sainsbury’s, switching to paperless billing with British Gas or recycling with Birmingham City Council.

For more information please contact the Nectar PR team on:
e: nectar.team@clarioncomms.co.uk t: 0207 479 0910 or

Sophie Bowell in the Oxfam Press Office
e: sbowell@oxfam.org.uk t: 01865 472254 / 07810 814 980

Notes to Editors:

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

In 2012, Nectar celebrated 10 years of rewarding British shoppers and has given back £2billion of rewards to collectors, including money off shopping, travel, days out and cinema tickets.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

www.oxfam.org.uk

About Oxfam Tag Your Bag
The Tag your Bag initiative (known as Gift Aid on donated items) ensures Oxfam can claim additional funds on all individual items donated and then sold in its stores.

Oxfam's Tag your Bag scheme means that every time we sell something Oxfam can raise 25% more from the government through Gift Aid.

Gift Aid is a scheme run by HM Revenue and Customs that allows charities like Oxfam to reclaim the tax on donations by UK taxpayers.

There are 22 stores in the Oxfam shop network that are unfortunately not able to take part in the Tag Your Bag scheme.

For more information please visit www.oxfam.org.uk/tagyourbag

Aeroplan to Match Donations to its Beyond Miles Partners during 2013 Miles Match Days

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 09:30:00 -0400

Montreal, QC, April 2, 2013 – Aeroplan today announced that it will match all miles donated by members to each of its ten Beyond Miles charitable partners as part of the 2013 Aeroplan Match Days. Miles will be matched on a 1 for 1 basis up to 500,000 Aeroplan Miles for each partner organization. Each organization has chosen its own match day and Aeroplan will match miles on that day for a 24 hour period.

To donate miles, members simply visit www.aeroplan.com/donate where they can choose to donate to: The Air Canada Foundation, Earth Day Canada, Engineers Without Borders, Free The Children, Médecins Sans Frontières, MusiCounts, Schools Without Borders, The Stephen Lewis Foundation, Veterinarians Without Borders and War Child Canada. Each of these ten Canadian organizations is committed to improving lives and enriching communities across Canada and abroad.

“In 2012, thanks to the generosity of our members, more than 8.5 million miles were donated to our partners during Miles Match Days,” said Kevin O’Brien, Chief Commercial Officer, Aeroplan. “These organizations are working on some of the most dynamic projects that truly have an impact in communities across the world. Our partners use Aeroplan Mile donations to offset travel costs including flights, hotel accommodation and car rentals for projects they work on here in Canada and across the globe.”

“Aeroplan Members have generously contributed millions of miles to the Stephen Lewis Foundation; support that has enabled powerful engagement and innovation – bringing African grandmothers and their orphaned teenage granddaughters to Canada to meet with Canadian grandmothers and the general public, and giving Africans at the frontlines of the AIDS pandemic in Africa the opportunity to be heard first-hand on the ways in which they’re restoring lives and resurrecting hope,” said Ilana Landsberg-Lewis, Executive Director, Stephen Lewis Foundation. “It has made our work possible, for which we are profoundly and constantly grateful. Kudos to Beyond Miles - a superlative partner in every way - and the compassionate Canadians who make it all work!”

Aeroplan’s Mile Matching Days will be held on:

Stephen Lewis Foundation – April 9th
Earth Day Canada – April 22nd
Free The Children- June 19th
MusiCounts – Sept. 13th
War Child Canada – Oct. 8th
Veterinarians Without Borders – Oct. 18th
Engineers Without Borders – Oct. 23rd
Médecins Sans Frontières – Nov. 7th
Schools Without Borders – Nov. 15th
The Air Canada Foundation – Dec. 4th

Since the program was launched in 2006, more than 285 million Aeroplan Miles have been donated by members. Beyond Miles partners use Aeroplan Miles to offset costs related to travel by air as well as hotel accommodations and car rentals. Aeroplan offsets 100 per cent of all carbon emissions from flights taken by Beyond Miles partners using donated miles. In 2013, Aeroplan donated 1 million miles to each of its partner organizations. Aeroplan Members can also automatically donate two per cent of all miles accumulated to any Beyond Miles partner of the member’s choice. Members interested in donating two per cent of their Aeroplan Miles simply visit their profile page on aeroplan.com, select the donation opt-in and the Beyond Miles partner they would like their miles to go to. In addition, Aeroplan also has a Charitable Pooling program that allows members to use miles to support local grass roots charities in need. More information is available at www.aeroplan.com/donate.

Aeroplan’s Beyond Miles program and other community investment initiatives can now be found on Twitter. Follow us at: http://twitter.com/BeyondMiles.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

Aimia CEO Rupert Duchesne to present at CIBC Retail and Consumer Conference

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:18:00 -0400

MONTREAL, March 27, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive, Aimia (TSX: AIM), will be presenting on Thursday March 28, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. EDT at CIBC's 16th Annual Retail and Consumer Conference in Toronto, Ontario. Mr. Duchesne will present on Aimia's evolving business model and the role data analytics will play in the global loyalty industry. The presentation will be broadcast live over the Internet at the following address: https://webcasts.welcome2theshow.com/cibc2013retail/aimia.

About Aimia
Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Employing more than 4,000 people in over 20 countries worldwide, Aimia offers clients, partners and members proven expertise in launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, delivering proprietary loyalty services, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital, mobile and social communications spaces.

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352-3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Analysts
Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Kellogg Company and Aimia Power Consumer Loyalty with the Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ Program

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:00:00 -0400

Aimia’s data-driven loyalty and rewards model provides mutual benefits to families and Kellogg Company

BATTLE CREEK, Mich., and MINNEAPOLIS, Minn., March 26, 2013 -- Loyalty programs are essential tools in the savvy marketer’s arsenal for building brand trust and affinity with customers. The importance of having a strong loyalty program was on display as Kellogg presented recently at Loyalty Expo in Orlando about the Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ consumer-loyalty program. Launched in June 2012, the program has not only strengthened the relationship between families and all of the company’s brands, but is producing useful data that brings new intelligence and insights to Kellogg on consumer buying behavior.

This targeted approach has paid off. The Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ program membership is growing rapidly and now covers a majority of Kellogg products including cereals, frozen foods and snacks. The Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ program has been such a significant asset for the company that national promotions, retail-specific offers, and brand promotions are now being run through the program. The program has brought greater efficiency and greater flexibility to marketing budgets since multiple products share an umbrella loyalty program, but still retain their individual appeal.

“When developing this program, we recognized the need to have a platform that would integrate multiple products across Kellogg’s brands and extend across all brand promotions,” said Dan Keller, Vice President - CRM and Loyalty at Kellogg Company. “We partnered with Aimia to develop the program, and in addition to driving loyalty, we’ve also been able to make data-driven marketing decisions which is critical in this competitive market.”

Aimia’s development of the platform for the Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ program was guided by the intelligence and insights that are possible through the intersection of technology and marketing. Aimia’s proprietary platform assigns a value to each code based on product, size and item cost, but also factors in a bonus point structure and national promotion overlays. The data that is generated when the consumer enters codes is analyzed to more effectively target promotions and offers to specific members. Aimia also provides data-driven catalogue technology for the program, which includes exclusive reward previews and member-specific reward items. As a result, Kellogg expects to see increased engagement with consumers and increased loyalty to products and its brands.

“Kellogg appreciated the importance of understanding their customers and what motivates them,” said Jay Lee, Chief Strategy Officer, US Region, Aimia. “Leveraging insights from consumer data allows companies to get the right offer to the right customers via the right channels, fostering a strong, two-way consumer loyalty relationship while building a sustainable competitive advantage for the company.”

To learn more about Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ visit www.KelloggsFamilyRewards.com.

About Kellogg Company
At Kellogg Company (NYSE: K), we are driven to enrich and delight the world through foods and brands that matter. With 2012 sales of $14.2 billion, Kellogg is the world’s leading cereal company; second largest producer of cookies, crackers and savory snacks; and a leading North American frozen foods company. Every day, our well-loved brands nourish families so they can flourish and thrive. These brands include Kellogg’s®, Keebler®, Special K®, Pringles®, Frosted Flakes®, Pop-Tarts®, Corn Flakes®, Rice Krispies®, Kashi®, Cheez-It®, Eggo®, Coco Pops®, Mini-Wheats®, and many more. Because we believe in the power of breakfast, we focus our philanthropic efforts global hunger relief through our Breakfasts for Better Days™ initiative, providing 1 billion servings of cereal and snacks - more than half of which are breakfasts - to children and families in need by the end of 2016. To learn more about our responsible business leadership, foods that delight and how we strive to make a difference in our communities around the world, visit www.kelloggcompany.com.

About Aimia
Aimia is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking.

Aimia is a Canadian public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM) and has over 4,000 employees in more than 20 countries around the world. For more information about Aimia, please visit www.aimia.com.

Media Contact:

For Kellogg Company:

Kellogg Media Hotline
Media.Hotline@Kellogg.com
+1-269-961-3799

For Aimia:

Lee Lubarsky
Lee.lubarsky@edelman.com
+1-212-642-7759

Aimia to purchase remaining stake in Nectar Italia

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 19:01:00 -0400

MONTREAL, March 19, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia today announced that it will take full control of the Nectar Italia coalition loyalty program, acquiring the remaining 25 per cent stake currently held by Banque Accord S.A.

The purchase price consideration of approximately €7 million ($9 million) will be paid on completion. An additional contingent consideration, for an amount to be determined, may be paid within the next two years, based on the performance of the program.

Over the three years since its launch in March 2010, Nectar Italia has signed up over 9.5 million members. Anchored by long term contracts with retailers Auchan, Simply Sma and a Nectar Italia co-branded financial cards offering, the program has 14 sponsor partners today.

Rupert Duchesne, Group CEO, said: "Our ability to deliver significant numbers of new members despite the deterioration in the Italian economy over the last three years is testament to the value members can derive from participating in coalition loyalty programs. We continue to make investments based on the value that we believe they can bring over the longer term for shareholders."

The transaction is expected to close within the next 60 days.

About Aimia

Media
Krista Pawley
416- 352 3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Karen Keyes
514-205-7163
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Megan Ratcliffe
44-20-7152 4881
Megan.ratcliffe@aimia.com

UK Supreme Court rules on the Aimia UK VAT case

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:14:00 -0400

MONTREAL, March 13, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc, (TSX: AIM) announced that it has been notified of the ruling on its outstanding Value Added Tax (VAT) litigation. The ruling was issued this morning by the UK Supreme Court.

Whilst the ruling is in our favour, the Supreme Court has asked for further submissions from both Aimia and the HMRC (the Commissioners).

The judgment as per the press summary of the Supreme Court is as follows:

The Supreme Court by a majority of three to two (Lord Wilson and Lord Carnwath dissenting) is minded to dismiss the Commissioners' appeal, but invites the parties to file written submissions as to the precise form of the order to be made. Lord Reed gives the lead judgment for the majority.

We are reviewing this with our advisors and are unable to make a final determination of the effect on Aimia at this time and therefore we are not in a position to provide any further comment.

About Aimia

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352-3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Megan Ratcliffe
011442071524881
Megan.ratcliffe@aimia.com

Nectar UK announces new Managing Director

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 09:00:00 -0400

Nectar, the UK’s largest loyalty programme, has announced the appointment of Will Shuckburgh as the new Managing Director of Nectar UK.

Nectar celebrated its tenth anniversary last year and is owned by the global loyalty company, Aimia. With over 19 million collectors a Nectar card is swiped on average 24 times per second. Will Shuckburgh will be responsible for the continued expansion and overall management of the programme.

Will moves into the Nectar role from Managing Director of European Commercial Development at Aimia where he sat on the group’s EMEA Executive Leadership Team. In this role, Will ran Aimia’s European Proprietary loyalty business - which manages loyalty programmes for clients such as RBS, Lloyds and Coca-Cola - and was also responsible for Aimia’s regional business development.

Having spent a significant part of his career at Nectar, Will has held a number of senior roles within the business. As Business Development Director he helped to step-change the growth of the programme with significant new partner additions including British Gas and Homebase, whilst as Client Services Director he cemented relationships with partners resulting in the renewal of every Nectar partnership up for review in 2012.

Commenting upon his new position, Will said:

“With Nectar growing from 16 million to 19 million customers in the past three years; £2 billion worth of rewards being given back since our launch; and customer satisfaction at an all-time high, the programme has never been more relevant. As the economic climate shows little sign of change, I look forward to building on this relevance to ensure that we are providing our partners with added value and our customers with a valuable tool in their financial armoury.”

This change comes as part of wider moves within Aimia’s global senior management team. These include the promotion of former Managing Director of Nectar UK, Jan-Pieter Lips, who has taken on the role of President for Aimia’s EMEA region. Jan-Pieter becomes a member of the global Executive Committee with immediate effect. A Dutch national who has worked in the UK since 2003, Jan-Pieter is one of the pioneers of the loyalty management industry in Europe, having started his career with Loyalty Management Group in the Netherlands in 1997.

Notes to editor:

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

In 2012, Nectar celebrated 10 years of rewarding British shoppers and has given back £2billion of rewards to collectors, including money off shopping, travel, days out and cinema tickets. 19 million collectors earn Nectar points when shopping for groceries, doing DIY, booking a holiday, paying household bills, buying petrol and even getting their car serviced. Collectors also earn Nectar points every time they shop online via nectar.com at over 500 leading online retailers.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

About Aimia
Aimia is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking.

Members can earn up to 25,000 Bonus Miles during the Second Edition of the Aeroplan Star Challenge

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 09:30:00 -0500

Earn More Miles through Social Media and Gamification Activities

Montreal, QC, March 7, 2013 – Aeroplan today announced that members can earn bonus miles during the “Aeroplan Star Challenge” promotion.

Starting March 11 until April 10, 2013, members can earn up to 25,000 bonus miles with more than 100 participating partners when they shop and collect Aeroplan Stars. Participating partners include: Air Canada, CIBC, American Express, Avis, Esso, Home Hardware, Birks, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, Starwood hotels and many more. Members can also earn when they shop online through Aeroplan eStoreretailers such as: indigo.ca, Apple Store Canada, Gap.ca, the Shopping Channel and more.

“Last year, millions of miles were earned during Aeroplan’s Star Challenge promotion,” said David Klein, Vice President, Innovation & Marketing, Aeroplan. “Based on member response, we learned that our members enjoyed playing the challenge to earn stars and ultimately get bonus miles. We wanted to give members another chance to play the game to help them get to their reward goal sooner and showcase all the accumulation opportunities that exist with our many partners. We also introduced a social media component so be sure to visit Aeroplan’s Facebook page to earn even more miles.”

New this year, Aeroplan is introducing an opportunity for members to earn Stars through their social engagement on Aeroplan’s Facebook page. Leveraging a new social gamification platform called Friendefi, the Facebook application tracks members’ social activities including answering a trivia question, following Aeroplan on Twitter or inviting friends. To create a fun and engaging experience for members, the application also includes various game elements such as leaderboards. Starting today, Aeroplan Members who engage in social media activities can earn up to 9 Stars for specific actions such as sharing, liking, following and recommending. For more details, visit Aeroplan’s Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/aeroplan.

HOW TO PLAY AEROPLAN’S STAR CHALLENGE:

Members need to register on aeroplan.com/star or by texting STAR and their Aeroplan Number to 23333.
Members earn Aeroplan Stars by shopping and using the services of participating Aeroplan Partners when they show or swipe their Aeroplan Card

Financial partners – Earn 2 Stars for every $1,000 block of spend – up to10 Stars with American Express and CIBC.
Airline partners - Earn 5 Stars per segment with Air Canada by booking travel between March 11 and April 10, 2013 and flying March 11 to April 30, 2013, or earn 3 Stars for each Star Alliance partner you fly with between March 11 and April 10, 2013.
Retail partners such as Esso and Home Hardware– Earn 2 Stars per transaction.
Non Air Travel partners such as Avis and Starwood – Earn up to 5 Stars per transaction depending on the partner.

How many Stars equal Aeroplan Miles?

If a member reaches 50 stars = up to 2,500 Bonus Aeroplan Miles;
If a member reaches 100 stars = up to 25,000 Bonus Aeroplan Miles.

In addition, each star a member earns is a chance to win 1 of 10 prizes of 500,000 miles.

For more information on the Aeroplan Star Challenge, to view a how-to-play video or a full list of participating partners & complete details or conditions, please visit: www.aeroplan.com/star.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

Aimia Declares Dividends

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 20:30:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Feb. 27, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM) announced today that the Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share, payable on March 29, 2013 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 15, 2013.

The Board has also declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.40625 per Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series 1, payable on March 29, 2013 to the holders of record at the close of business on March 15, 2013.

Dividends paid by Aimia to Canadian residents on both its common and preferred shares are "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes.

About Aimia

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352 3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Karen Keyes
514-205-7163
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Aimia Adopts Advance Notice By-law

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 20:30:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Feb. 27, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - (TSX: AIM) Aimia announced that its board of directors today approved the adoption of an advance notice by-law (the "By-law"), which requires advance notice to the Corporation in circumstances where nominations of persons for election as a director of the Corporation are made by shareholders other than pursuant to: (i) a requisition of a meeting made pursuant to the provisions of the Canada Business Corporations Act (the "Act"); or (ii) a shareholder proposal made pursuant to the provisions of the Act.

Among other things, the By-law fixes a deadline by which shareholders must submit a notice of director nominations to the Corporation prior to any annual or special meeting of shareholders where directors are to be elected and sets forth the information that a shareholder must include in the notice for it to be valid.

In the case of an annual meeting of shareholders, notice to the Corporation must be made not less than 30 nor more than 65 days prior to the date of the annual meeting; provided, however, that in the event that the annual meeting is to be held on a date that is less than 50 days after the date on which the first public announcement of the date of the annual meeting was made, notice may be made not later than the close of business on the 10th day following such public announcement.

In the case of a special meeting of shareholders (which is not also an annual meeting), notice to the Corporation must be made not later than the close of business on the 15th day following the day on which the first public announcement of the date of the special meeting was made.

The By-law is effective immediately. At the next meeting of shareholders of the Corporation to be held on May 14, 2013, shareholders will be asked to confirm and ratify the By-law.

About Aimia

Media
Krista Pawley
416- 352 3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Karen Keyes
514-205-7163
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Aimia Drives Global Collaboration with Appointment of Group COO

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 20:29:00 -0500

Creation of new Group COO role leverages existing capabilities and enhances global focus

MONTREAL, Feb. 27, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) today announced changes to its global leadership team that build on its existing strengths and will enable the company's strategic aspirations as the recognized global leader in loyalty management.

Effective immediately, David Johnston, currently EVP, President & CEO EMEA, will assume the newly created role of Group COO, reporting into Group CEO Rupert Duchesne. As Group COO, Johnston will drive further development of the company's global operating model, building on the strengths of our regional businesses and harnessing the changes which have seen Aimia grow from less than 1,500 employees at the end of 2008 to over 4,000 employees in 20 countries today.

"Operational efficiency and effectiveness are critical to Aimia's ongoing success. This organizational evolution will allow the enterprise to continue on our growth trajectory while also building innovative products and services and ensuring delivery of operational excellence across our significant global footprint," said Rupert Duchesne, Group CEO. "David's proven track record of delivering growth across multiple platforms and geographies will sharpen the focus that Aimia needs to evolve into a truly global organization."

The leaders of Aimia's key operating regions, Canada, EMEA, US, and Asia Pacific, will continue to drive regional strategy, operations and execution. They will report into the Group COO role to facilitate more collaboration and leverage the best of Aimia for our global clients. As Group COO, Johnston will also continue to be responsible for Global Business Development. In his most recent role at Aimia, Johnston has led the European region to double digit growth while also leading global business development efforts in emerging markets including India, Chile and Brazil. He joined Aimia in 2010 from a long tenure at Pepsico International where he held a number of senior marketing and general management positions.

Concurrent with the creation of the Group COO role, Liz Graham, currently on a medical leave of absence, will return later this year to the role of Executive Vice President, Operations & Strategic Initiatives. This role encompasses Ms. Graham's current responsibilities including overseeing the global CIO office, and is expanded to also include development and delivery of Aimia's scalable and efficient product set, supporting client needs and business growth.

Jan-Pieter Lips, currently Managing Director, Nectar UK and RMMEL, will step up as President for the EMEA Region. He becomes a member of the global Executive Committee with immediate effect, reporting to the Group COO. A Dutch national who has worked in the UK since 2003, Jan-Pieter is one of the pioneers of the loyalty management industry in Europe, having started his career with Loyalty Management Group in the Netherlands in 1997.

Melissa Sonberg, Senior Vice President, Global Brand, Communications and External Affairs and a Founding Executive who stewarded the company's IPO process, and previously led the Human Resources, Public Affairs, IR, CSR and Legal functions, has announced her intention to retire from the organization during the fourth quarter following a transition of her current responsibilities.

All appointments are effective immediately and all other roles remain unchanged.

Media
Krista Pawley
416-352 3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

Investors
Karen Keyes
514-205 7163
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Aimia reports fourth quarter and year end results

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 20:06:00 -0500

Record Adjusted EBITDA and Net Earnings, benefits from stronger operational performance in all regions and prior year investments

Strong EMEA performance driven by Nectar UK delivers robust Gross Billings performance for the year
Record Adjusted EBITDA and Net Earnings, benefits from strong operational performance in all regions and a distribution from our investment in Premier Loyalty & Marketing (PLM)
2013 outlook calls for Gross Billings growth of between 3 and 5 per cent, continued improvements in operational leverage contributing to approximately $425 million in Adjusted EBITDA and ongoing investment in global footprint


FOURTH QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS¹	Three Months Ended December 31,		Years Ended December 31,		Year Over Year
(in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)	2012	2011	2012	2011	% Change
	As Reported		As Reported		As Reported	Constant Currency
Gross Billings	615.1	621.1	2,243.0	2,233.2	0.4	0.5
Total Revenue	678.2	560.7	2,248.9	2,115.9	6.3	6.4
Net Earnings (loss)	57.3	(142.6)	166.7	(77.0)	316.6	na
Earnings (loss) per Common Share	0.31	(0.74)	0.89	(0.40)	322.5	na
Adjusted EBITDA	118.1	90.0	402.6	342.2	17.7	17.9
Free Cash Flow before Dividends Paid	77.1	12.4	299.5	197.6	51.5	na

Non-recurring items included within 2011 numbers are detailed in the Notes to table section of this release on page 7. Non-GAAP measures (Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow) are explained on pages 6 and 7 in the section entitled Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information. Discrepancies in variances may arise due to rounding.

MONTREAL, Feb. 27, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - (TSX: AIM) Aimia today reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2012. All financial information is in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

"Our coalition programs continue to focus on driving engagement with our members and value to our partners even in tougher economic conditions. The clear gains from the renewal of a key partner contract at Nectar UK in 2011 drove stronger growth in EMEA in 2012, while Aeroplan attracted another 0.7 million new members to an already strong member base in 2012" said Rupert Duchesne , Group Chief Executive. "Our record profitability is consistent with the operational leverage and returns delivered through investments in our coalition loyalty programs and strong operational management in all regions. The investments we have made to grow our business elsewhere are also demonstrating returns, with a distribution from PLM contributing to strong Adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow this quarter."

Fourth Quarter and Year End Financial Highlights (Period ended December 31, 2012 versus period ended December 31, 2011)
Consolidated - Adjusted EBITDA up on improved contributions from all regions

Fourth quarter Gross Billings of $615.1 million, a decrease of 1.0 per cent or 0.2 per cent on a constant currency basis compared to the same period of 2011. Full year Gross Billings of $2,243.0 million, an increase of 0.4 per cent or 0.5 per cent on a constant currency basis over 2011; excluding the impact of Qantas in-sourcing rewards fulfillment and the results of operations of EIM, 2012 Gross Billings increased 2.3 per cent.
Fourth quarter Adjusted EBITDA of $118.1 million, an increase of 31.2 per cent; full year Adjusted EBITDA of $402.6 million, an increase of 17.7 per cent over 2011. The quarter and year both include the impact of a distribution from PLM in 2012 and variances against last year when we recorded adjustments, including breakage, in EMEA in relation to the UK and the Middle East businesses.
The $15.7 million PLM contribution to consolidated Adjusted EBITDA results from the solid growth in the program in its first two years, with Gross Billings for PLM's Club Premier up 27.0% year over year, and over 3.3 million premium card members at the end of 2012.

Canada - Strong operating leverage despite a softer than expected Q4 finish

Fourth quarter Gross Billings of $336.2 million compared with $335.3 million in the same period of 2011, an increase of 0.3 per cent; full year Gross Billings of $1,292.6 million, a decrease of 0.6 per cent over 2011.
Adjusted EBITDA of $100.3 million in the fourth quarter, an increase of 1.6 per cent compared to the prior year period; operating leverage as a result of lower redemption costs and lower direct costs in proprietary loyalty drove a full year increase of 6.3 per cent over 2011 to $396.1 million.
Gross Billings with financial partners were up for the full year but accounted for the softer than expected Gross Billings in the fourth quarter. This was partly accounted for by a tough fourth quarter comparative, with an Aeroplan Miles conversion promotion campaign in 2011 which did not recur in 2012. An increase in the number of active credit cards was also more than offset by lower fourth quarter spend per card. Lower business volumes in financial services also affected proprietary loyalty Gross Billings in the fourth quarter.
Air and non-air Gross Billings for Loyalty Units were up in the fourth quarter but the changes to the Air Canada accumulation grid impacted Gross Billings for the full year.
The increase in Aeroplan Miles issuance and redemption were broadly aligned. Despite reductions in accumulation mostly explained by changes in the Air Canada accumulation grid, Aeroplan Miles issued increased by 0.4 per cent in the year while total Aeroplan Miles redeemed increased 0.5 per cent in 2012 over 2011.
The Aeroplan Program added 0.7 million members and more than 0.3 million new financial cards were issued during the year. At the end of 2012, Aeroplan had approximately 4.7 million active members. Of the 2.3 million rewards issued in 2012, more than 1.6 million were for flights on Air Canada and Star Alliance carriers with around 0.7 million in non-air rewards.

Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) - Strong EMEA performance driven by Nectar UK

Fourth quarter Gross Billings of $177.6 million, an increase of 2.7 per cent or 4.6 per cent on a constant currency basis compared to the same period of 2011. Full year Gross Billings of $639.9 million, up 11.9 per cent or 12.9 per cent on a constant currency basis over 2011, mainly due to an increase in Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units issued in the UK in the grocery and energy sectors along with the benefit of the new contract terms with the main sponsors in the UK and the Middle East
Adjusted EBITDA of $16.0 million in the quarter, an increase of $9.8 million; Full year Adjusted EBITDA of $49.2 million, an increase of $21 million when compared with $28.2 million in the prior year period, with increased volumes driving improvements in operating leverage.
At the end of 2012, Nectar UK had approximately 19 million active members, up from 18.5 million in 2011. Nectar UK Points issued in 2012 increased by 16.1 per cent compared to 2011, with higher issuance at British Gas and Sainsbury's continuing to drive improvement into the fourth quarter.
Redemption activity for Nectar UK increased by 10.6 per cent in the year mainly driven by an increase in the number of Nectar Points in circulation.
A more difficult economic environment in Italy saw points issuance decrease 0.6 per cent in 2012 compared to 2011. 9.5 million members have joined Nectar Italia since the inception of the program, up from 8.5 million last year. Nectar Italia points redeemed increased significantly in 2012 consistent with members having increased availability of points in their accounts due to the program's growth, resulting in increased engagement among members.
Other Gross Billings increased by $1.9 million or 2.1 per cent compared to 2011, with a full year of delivery under international contracts driving a 13.2 per cent increase in Gross Billings for Intelligent Shopper Solutions (ISS) during the year.
The i2c joint venture with Sainsbury's in the UK will launch its first fully integrated multi-channel marketing campaigns from the first quarter of 2013.

US & Asia Pacific - Profitable despite a Challenging US Environment

Fourth quarter Gross Billings of $102.3 million, a decrease of 11.6 per cent or 10.5 per cent on a constant currency basis compared to the same period 2011. Full year Gross Billings of $315.2 million. Excluding the impact of Qantas in-sourcing rewards fulfillment and the results of operations of EIM, Gross Billings for the full year were down 4.4 per cent or 5.7 per cent on a constant currency basis.
Fourth quarter Adjusted EBITDA at $6.7 million, compared to $(2.5) million in the same period of 2011; full year Adjusted EBITDA of $7.4 million compared to $(11.6) million in 2011.
Under new management, the US region is making good strides in terms of repositioning and focusing on higher value-add strategic loyalty services, offsetting the impact of client losses in the prior year and benefiting from restructuring undertaken in 2011. In 2012, the US accounted for $191.5 million of Gross Billings, compared to $196.3 million in the prior year, and contributed to the profitability of the US&APAC segment.
Gross Billings for the region included $16.5 million from the Excellence in Motivation (EIM) acquisition which was completed on September 24, 2012.
The APAC region remains focused on new business development as well as the 2013 deployment of a redemption technology and rewards fulfillment contract for Standard Chartered Bank.

Cash Flow and Financial Position
At December 31, 2012, Aimia had $498.0 million of cash and cash equivalents, $28.3 million of restricted cash, $42.5 million of short-term investments and $313.3 million of long-term investments in bonds, for a total of $882.1 million.

Aimia's Free Cash Flow (before dividends paid) was $77.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2012 compared to $12.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2011. For the full year, Free Cash Flow (before dividends paid) was up 51.5% to $299.5 million. In addition to benefiting from a $15.7 million distribution from Club Premier, Free Cash Flow for the quarter and the year increased due to higher cash generated from operations. This was primarily due to lower cost of rewards and lower direct costs as well as the timing of changes in net operating assets and was only partially offset by higher capital expenditures as we continued to invest in the future of the business.

Dividends Declared
Common Shares
The Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share, payable on March 29, 2013 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 15, 2013.

Preferred Shares
The Board also declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.40625 per Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series 1, payable on March 29, 2013 to the holders of record at the close of business on March 15, 2013.

Dividends paid by Aimia to Canadian residents on both its common and preferred shares are "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes.

2013 Outlook

For the year ending December 31, 2013, Aimia expects to report the following:


Consolidated Outlook
	2012 Actual	2013 Target Range
Gross Billings	$2,243.0 million	Growth of between 3% and 5%
Adjusted EBITDA	$402.6 million	To approximate $425 million
Free Cash Flow before dividends	$299.5 million	Between $255 and $275 million
Capital Expenditures	$58.0 million	To approximate $70 million
Income Taxes	Canadian income tax rate of 26.2%	Current income tax rate is anticipated to approximate 27% in Canada. The Corporation expects no significant cash income taxes will be incurred in the rest of its foreign operations.


Business Segment Gross Billings Growth Outlook
	2012 Actual	2013 Target Range
Canada	$1,292.6 million	Between 1% and 3%
EMEA	$639.9 million	Between 5% and 7%
US & APAC	$315.2 million	Above 5%

The above guidance excludes the effects of fluctuations in currency exchange rates. In addition, Aimia made a number of economic and market assumptions in preparing its 2013 forecasts, including assumptions regarding the performance of the economies in which the Corporation operates and market competition and tax laws applicable to the Corporation's operations. The Corporation cautions that the assumptions used to prepare the above forecasts for 2012, although reasonable at the time they were made, may prove to be incorrect or inaccurate. In addition, the above forecasts do not reflect the potential impact of any non-recurring or other special items or of any dispositions, mergers, acquisitions, other business combinations or other transactions that may be announced or that may occur after February 27, 2013. The financial impact of these transactions and non-recurring and other special items can be complex and depends on the facts particular to each of them. We therefore cannot describe the expected impact in a meaningful way or in the same way we present known risks affecting our business. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our expectations as set forth in this news release. The outlook provided constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and should be read in conjunction with the "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" section.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
In order to provide a better understanding of the results, the following indicators are used:

Adjusted Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization
EBITDA adjusted for certain factors particular to the business, such as changes in deferred revenue and Future Redemption Costs ("Adjusted EBITDA"), is used by management to evaluate performance, and to measure compliance with debt covenants. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA assists investors in comparing the Corporation's performance on a consistent basis without regard to depreciation and amortization, which are non-cash in nature and can vary significantly depending on accounting methods and non-operating factors such as historical cost. Adjusted EBITDA also includes distributions and dividends received from equity-accounted investments.

Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement based on GAAP, is not considered an alternative to operating income or net income in measuring performance, and is not comparable to similar measures used by other issuers. For a reconciliation to GAAP, please refer to the Selected Information and Reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Earnings and Free Cash Flow included in the attached schedule. Adjusted EBITDA should not be used as an exclusive measure of cash flow because it does not account for the impact of working capital growth, capital expenditures, debt repayments and other sources and uses of cash, which are disclosed in the statements of cash flows.

Adjusted Net Earnings
Adjusted Net Earnings provides a measurement of profitability calculated on a basis consistent with Adjusted EBITDA. Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation are adjusted to exclude Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology, share of net earnings (loss) of equity accounted investments and impairment charges. Adjusted Net Earnings includes the Change in deferred revenue and Change in Future Redemption Costs, net of the income tax effect and non controlling interest effect (where applicable) on these items at an entity level basis. Adjusted Net Earnings also includes distributions and dividends received from equity-accounted investments.

Adjusted Net Earnings is not a measurement based on GAAP, is not considered an alternative to net earnings in measuring profitability, and is not comparable to similar measures used by other issuers. For a reconciliation to GAAP, please refer to the Selected Information and Reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Earnings and Free Cash Flow included in the attached schedule.

Standardized Free Cash Flow ("Free Cash Flow")
Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP measure recommended by the CICA in order to provide a consistent and comparable measurement of free cash flow across entities of cash generated from operations and is used as an indicator of financial strength and performance.

Free Cash Flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities, as reported in accordance with GAAP, less adjustments for:

(a)	total capital expenditures as reported in accordance with GAAP; and
(b)	dividends, when stipulated, unless deducted in arriving at cash flows from operating activities.

For a reconciliation to cash flows from operations please refer to the Selected Information and Reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Earnings and Free Cash Flow included in the attached schedule.

Notes to table
2011 numbers in the table on page 1 include:

Adjustments to breakage estimates for Nectar UK and Air Miles Middle East recorded during the fourth quarter of 2011. The impact resulted in a $136.0 million reduction to revenue. Of this amount, $113.3 million is attributable to the years prior to 2011, $13.8 million to the first three quarters of 2011 and $8.9 million to the fourth quarter of 2011.
A goodwill impairment charge of $49.4 million, or $53.9 million net of a tax recovery of $4.5 million, recorded during the fourth quarter of 2011 in relation to the US proprietary loyalty business which affected net earnings.
A net unfavourable impact on Adjusted EBITDA for the fourth quarter of 2011 of $5.9 million representing breakage adjustments for Nectar UK and Air Miles Middle East offset in part by a contribution from a coalition anchor partner in connection with the extension of its participation in the program.

Q4 2012 Conference Call / Audio Webcast
Aimia will host a conference call to discuss its fourth quarter and full year 2012 financial results at 8:00 a.m. ET on Thursday, February 28, 2013. The call can be accessed by dialing 1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450 for the Toronto area. The call will be simultaneously audio webcast at: http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/xx

A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of February 27, 2013 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx and an archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

The audited consolidated financial statements, the MD&A and a financial highlights presentation will be accessible on the investor relations website at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

About Aimia

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Aimia's expectations as of February 27, 2013, and are subject to change after such date. However, Aimia disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

SELECTED INFORMATION AND RECONCILIATION OF EBITDA, ADJUSTED EBITDA, ADJUSTED NET EARNINGS AND FREE CASH FLOW


			For the years ended December 31,						%?
(in thousands of Canadian dollars , except share and per share information)			2012		2011		2010 ⁽ⁱ⁾		2012 over 2011	2011 over 2010
Gross Billings			2,243,023		2,233,226		2,187,753	(j)	0.4	2.1
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units			1,628,429		1,560,801		1,457,751		4.3	7.1
Total revenue			2,248,918		2,115,905	(f)	2,056,235		6.3	2.9
Cost of rewards and direct costs			(1,300,925)		(1,332,874)		(1,295,282)	(k)	(2.4)	2.9
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization *^(a)*			947,993		783,031	(f)	760,953	(k)	21.1	2.9
Depreciation and amortization			(38,425)		(36,033)		(32,454)		6.6	11.0
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			(87,234)		(93,474)		(90,308)		(6.7)	3.5
Gross margin			822,334		653,524	(f)	638,191		25.8	2.4
Operating expenses			(566,847)		(612,548)	(g)	(542,593)	(k)	(7.5)	12.9
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			87,234		93,474		90,308		(6.7)	3.5
Operating income before amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			342,721		134,450	(f)(g)	185,906	(k)	154.9	(27.7)
Depreciation and amortization			38,425		36,033		32,454		6.6	11.0
Impairment of goodwill			—		53,901		—		(100.0)	100.0
EBITDA *^(a)(c)(l)*			381,146		224,384	(f)	218,360	(k)	69.9	2.8
Adjustments:
Change in deferred revenue
		Gross Billings	2,243,023		2,233,226		2,187,753	(j)
		Revenue	(2,248,918)		(2,115,905)	(f)	(2,056,235)
	Change in Future Redemption Costs *^(b)*		11,640		472		(64,344)
		(Change in Net Loyalty Units outstanding x Average Cost of Rewards per Loyalty Unit for the period)
	Distribution received from an equity-accounted investment		15,712		—		—
Subtotal of Adjustments			21,457		117,793		67,174
Adjusted EBITDA ^(c)			402,603		342,177		285,534	(j)(k)	17.7	19.8
Net earnings (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			165,167	(h)	(59,678)	(f)(g)(h)	14,923	(h)(k)
Weighted average number of shares			173,015,589		179,146,339		194,748,024
Earnings per common share *^(d)*			0.89	(h)	(0.40)	(f)(g)(h)	0.02	(h)(k)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			165,167	(h)	(59,678)	(f)(g)(h)	14,923	(h)(k)
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			87,234		93,474		90,308
Share of net (earnings) loss of equity-accounted investments			(2,917)		4,444		—
Impairment of goodwill			—		53,901		—
Adjusted EBITDA Adjustments (from above)			21,457		117,793		67,174
Tax on adjustments *^(e)*			(196)		6,273		(10,918)
Non-controlling interests share on adjustments above			(2,252)		(18,042)		(5,314)
Adjusted Net Earnings^(c)			268,493	(h)	198,165	(h)	156,173	(h)(j)(k)	35.5	26.9
Adjusted Net Earnings per common share ^(c)(d)			1.49	(h)	1.04	(h)	0.75	(h)(j)(k)
Cash flow from operations			357,443		242,541		268,105
Capital expenditures			(57,955)		(44,919)		(46,877)
Dividends			(119,992)		(113,481)		(107,577)
Free Cash Flow ^(c)			179,496		84,141		113,651		113.3	(26.0)
Total assets			5,246,581		4,931,733		5,140,964
Total long-term liabilities			1,758,139		1,313,201		1,621,735
Total dividends per preferred share			1.625		1.625		1.530
Total dividends per common share			0.630		0.575		0.500

(a)	Excludes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.
(b)	The per unit cost derived from this calculation is retroactively applied to all prior periods with the effect of revaluing the Future Redemption Cost liability on the basis of the latest available average unit cost.
(c)	A non-GAAP measurement.
(d)	After deducting dividends declared on preferred shares.
(e)	The effective tax rates, calculated as income tax expense / earnings before taxes for the period on an entity level basis, are applied to the related entity level adjustments noted above.
(f)	Includes the impact of the adjustments to the Breakage estimates related to the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs, which resulted in a reduction of $113.3 million to revenue from Loyalty Units attributable to the years prior to 2011. Of the total adjustment, $82.0 million is attributable to the Nectar Program and $31.3 million is attributable to the Air Miles Middle East program.
(g)	Includes a goodwill impairment charge of $53.9 million recorded in the fourth quarter of 2011 related to the US proprietary loyalty business.
(h)	Interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 includes the effect of a charge recognized as a result of the ECJ VAT Judgment amounting to $4.5 million (£2.8 million), $4.4 million (£2.8 million) and $7.2 million (£4.5 million), respectively.
(i)	These figures exclude any effect attributable to the change in Breakage estimates made in the fourth quarter of 2011 in the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs.
(j)	Includes the positive effect of a $17.4 million adjustment, as a result of a reclassification of deferred revenue amounts previously included in customer deposits.
(k)	Includes the non comparable effect of a $17.4 million (£10.9 million) net charge to earnings recognized as a result of the ECJ VAT Judgment for the year ended December 31, 2010. Of this amount, $53.1 million (£33.4 million), representing input tax credits attributable to the period from 2002 to 2009, was charged to cost of rewards and $1.6 million (£1.0 million) to operating expenses. Operating expenses were also reduced by the reversal of a provision of $7.2 million (£4.5 million) payable to certain employees in the event of a favourable VAT outcome and by the release of the contingent consideration of $30.1 million (£19.0 million) related to the LMG acquisition following the unfavourable ECJ VAT Judgment.
(l)	Excludes the goodwill impairment charge.


			Three Months Ended December 31,				%?
(in thousands of Canadian dollars , except share and per share information)			2012		2011		Q4
Gross Billings			615,055		621,109		(1.0)
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units			429,534		425,208		1.0
Total revenue			678,179		560,683	(f)	21.0
Cost of rewards and direct costs			(412,651)		(423,788)		(2.6)
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization *^(a)*			265,528		136,895	(f)	94.0
Depreciation and amortization			(12,013)		(11,698)		2.7
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			(24,831)		(24,143)		2.8
Gross margin			228,684		101,054	(f)	126.3
Operating expenses			(153,551)		(204,216)	(h)	(24.8)
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			24,831		24,143		2.8
Operating income (loss) before amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			99,964		(79,019)	(f)(h)	226.5
Depreciation and amortization			12,013		11,698		2.7
Impairment of goodwill			—		53,901		(100.0)
EBITDA *^(a)(c)(j)*			111,977		(13,420)	(f)	934.4
Adjustments:
Change in deferred revenue
		Gross Billings	615,055		621,109
		Revenue	(678,179)		(560,683)	(f)
	Change in Future Redemption Costs *^(b)*		53,504		42,972	(g)
		(Change in Net Loyalty Units outstanding x Average Cost of Rewards per Loyalty Unit for the period)
Distribution received from an equity-accounted investment			15,712		—
Subtotal of Adjustments			6,092		103,398
Adjusted EBITDA ^(c)			118,069		89,978	(g)	31.2
Net earnings (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			56,812	(i)	(126,267)	(f)(h)(i)
Weighted average number of shares			172,123,799		173,774,352
Earnings per common share *^(d)*			0.31	(i)	(0.74)	(f)(h)(i)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			56,812	(i)	(126,267)	(f)(h)(i)
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			24,831		24,143
Share of net loss of equity-accounted investments			374		10,303
Impairment of goodwill			—		53,901
Adjusted EBITDA Adjustments (from above)			6,092		103,398
Tax on adjustments *^(e)*			(1,377)		405
Non-controlling interests share on adjustments above			(889)		(26,372)
Adjusted Net Earnings^(c)			85,843	(i)	39,511	(g)(i)	117.3
Adjusted Net Earnings per common share ^(c)(d)			0.48	(i)	0.21	(g)(i)
Cash flow from operations			100,570		27,623
Capital expenditures			(23,506)		(15,185)
Dividends			(30,374)		(28,900)
Free Cash Flow ^(c)			46,690		(16,462)		383.6
Total assets			5,246,581		4,931,733
Total long-term liabilities			1,758,139		1,313,201
Total dividends per preferred share			0.406		0.406
Total dividends per common share			0.160		0.150

(a)	Excludes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.
(b)	The per unit cost derived from this calculation is retroactively applied to all prior periods with the effect of revaluing the Future Redemption Cost liability on the basis of the latest available average unit cost.
(c)	A non-GAAP measurement.
(d)	After deducting dividends declared on preferred shares.
(e)	The effective tax rates, calculated as income tax expense / earnings before taxes for the period on an entity level basis, are applied to the related entity level adjustments noted above.
(f)	Includes the impact of the adjustments to the Breakage estimates related to the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs, which resulted in a reduction of $127.1 million to revenue from Loyalty Units, with $113.3 million attributable to the years prior to 2011 and $13.8 million attributable to the first three quarters of 2011. Of the total adjustment, $89.0 million is attributable to the Nectar Program and $38.1 million is attributable to the Air Miles Middle East program.
(g)	The Change in Future Redemption costs for the quarter ended December 31, 2011 includes an unfavorable impact of $11.3 million resulting from the adjustments to the Breakage estimates related to the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs attributable to the first three quarters of 2011.
(h)	Includes a goodwill impairment charge of $53.9 million recorded in the fourth quarter of 2011 related to the US proprietary loyalty business.
(i)	Interest expense for the three months ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 includes the effect of a charge recognized as a result of the ECJ VAT Judgment amounting to $1.1 million (£0.7 million) and $1.0 million (£0.7 million), respectively.
(j)	Excludes the goodwill impairment charge.

SEGMENTED INFORMATION

At December 31, 2012, the Corporation had three reportable and operating segments: Canada, EMEA and US & APAC. The tables below summarize the relevant financial information by operating segment:


		Years Ended December 31,
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)		2012	2011^(f)	2012		2011^(f)		2012		2011^(f)		2012		2011	2012	2011^(f)	2012		2011^(f)
Operating Segments		Canada		EMEA				US & APAC				Corporate^(b)			Eliminations		Consolidated
Gross Billings		1,292,551	1,300,510	639,851	(c)	571,598	(c)	315,205	(c)	366,502	(c)	—		—	(4,584)	(5,384)	2,243,023	(c)	2,233,226	(c)
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units		1,079,793	1,078,504	548,636		482,297		—		—		—		—	—	—	1,628,429		1,560,801
Revenue from Loyalty Units		1,109,523	1,102,463	528,359		331,284	(g)	—		—		—		—	—	—	1,637,882		1,433,747	(g)
Revenue from proprietary loyalty services		158,169	177,695	15,191		25,057		312,337		364,506		—		—	—	—	485,697		567,258
Other revenue		49,731	49,714	75,608		65,186		—		—		—		—	—	—	125,339		114,900
Intercompany revenue		17	1,018	304		586		4,263		3,780		—		—	(4,584)	(5,384)	—		—
Total revenue		1,317,440	1,330,890	619,462		422,113	(g)	316,600		368,286		—		—	(4,584)	(5,384)	2,248,918		2,115,905	(g)
Cost of rewards and direct costs		693,044	726,580	438,639		384,108		169,563		224,616		—		—	(321)	(2,430)	1,300,925		1,332,874
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization		624,396	604,310	180,823		38,005	(g)	147,037		143,670		—		—	(4,263)	(2,954)	947,993		783,031	(g)
Depreciation and amortization *^(a)*		95,170	100,197	17,005		13,884		13,484		15,426		—		—	—	—	125,659		129,507
Gross margin		529,226	504,113	163,818		24,121	(g)	133,553		128,244		—		—	(4,263)	(2,954)	822,334		653,524	(g)
Operating expenses before the undernoted		225,040	223,482	141,995		137,600		138,277		153,501		53,260		41,282	(4,263)	(2,954)	554,309		552,911
	Share-based compensation	—	—	—		—		—		—		12,538		5,736	—	—	12,538		5,736
	Impairment of goodwill *^(h)*	—	—	—		—		—		53,901		—		—	—	—	—		53,901
Total operating expenses		225,040	223,482	141,995		137,600		138,277		207,402		65,798		47,018	(4,263)	(2,954)	566,847		612,548
Operating income (loss)		304,186	280,631	21,823		(113,479)	(g)	(4,724)		(79,158)		(65,798)		(47,018)	—	—	255,487		40,976	(g)
Adjusted EBITDA *⁽ⁱ⁾*		396,137	372,642	49,187		28,168		7,365		(11,615)		(50,086)	(j)	(47,018)	—	—	402,603	(j)	342,177
Additions to non-current assets *^(d)*		32,269	24,056	18,675		16,455		7,011		4,408		2,273		—	N/A	N/A	60,228		44,919
Non-current assets *^(d)*		3,190,837	3,259,974	468,782	(e)	459,729	(e)	77,805	(e)	43,948	(e)	2,156		—	N/A	N/A	3,739,580	(e)	3,763,651	(e)
Deferred revenue		1,790,540	1,815,595	438,985		412,815		24,133		14,324		—		—	N/A	N/A	2,253,658		2,242,734
Total assets		3,883,248	3,796,092	998,514		931,724		228,291		149,512		136,528		54,405	N/A	N/A	5,246,581		4,931,733

(a)	Includes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.
(b)	Includes expenses that are not directly attributable to any specific operating segment. Corporate also includes the financial position and operating results of our operations in India, the investments in PLM, Prismah and Cardlytics.
(c)	Includes third party Gross Billings of $525.2 million in the UK and $191.5 million in the US for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to third party Gross Billings of $466.8 million in the UK and $196.3 million in the US for the year ended December 31, 2011. Third party Gross Billings are attributed to a country on the basis of the country where the contractual and management responsibility for the customer resides.
(d)	Non-current assets includes amounts relating to goodwill, intangible assets and property and equipment.
(e)	Includes non-current assets of $418.2 million in the UK and $71.1 million in the US as of December 31, 2012, compared to non-current assets of $408.4 million in the UK and $38.0 million in the US as of December 31, 2011.
(f)	Intercompany revenue and expenses related to the comparative period have been reclassified to conform with the presentation adopted in the current period.
(g)	Includes the impact of the adjustments to the Breakage estimates related to the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs, which resulted in a reduction of $113.3 million to revenue from Loyalty Units attributable to the years prior to 2011. Of the total adjustment, $82.0 million is attributable to the Nectar Program and $31.3 million is attributable to the Air Miles Middle East program.
(h)	The goodwill impairment charge recorded during the year ended December 31, 2011 related to the US proprietary loyalty business.
(i)	A non-GAAP measurement.
(j)	Adjusted EBITDA includes distributions received from an equity-accounted investment, amounting to $15.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.


		Three Months Ended December 31,
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)		2012	2011^(f)	2012		2011^(f)		2012		2011^(f)		2012		2011	2012	2011^(f)	2012		2011^(f)
Operating Segments		Canada		EMEA				US & APAC				Corporate^(b)			Eliminations		Consolidated
Gross Billings		336,232	335,307	177,586	(c)	172,919	(c)	102,265	(c)	115,735	(c)	—		—	(1,028)	(2,852)	615,055	(c)	621,109	(c)
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units		278,780	279,103	150,754		146,105		—		—		—		—	—	—	429,534		425,208
Revenue from Loyalty Units		267,678	291,230	223,728		73,128	(g)	—		—		—		—	—	—	491,406		364,358	(g)
Revenue from proprietary loyalty services		45,314	44,017	4,276		5,375		101,858		112,872		—		—	—	—	151,448		162,264
Other revenue		12,546	12,080	22,779		21,981		—		—		—		—	—	—	35,325		34,061
Intercompany revenue		5	298	48		157		975		2,397		—		—	(1,028)	(2,852)	—		—
Total revenue		325,543	347,625	250,831		100,641	(g)	102,833		115,269		—		—	(1,028)	(2,852)	678,179		560,683	(g)
Cost of rewards and direct costs		172,597	182,290	182,578		168,716		57,529		74,063		—		—	(53)	(1,281)	412,651		423,788
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization		152,946	165,335	68,253		(68,075)	(g)	45,304		41,206		—		—	(975)	(1,571)	265,528		136,895	(g)
Depreciation and amortization *^(a)*		25,257	24,730	4,881		3,727		6,706		7,384		—		—	—	—	36,844		35,841
Gross margin		127,689	140,605	63,372		(71,802)	(g)	38,598		33,822		—		—	(975)	(1,571)	228,684		101,054	(g)
Operating expenses before the undernoted		58,912	60,418	36,910		34,897		38,018		44,136		18,172		12,887	(975)	(1,571)	151,037		150,767
	Share-based compensation	—	—	—		—		—		—		2,514		(452)	—	—	2,514		(452)
	Impairment of goodwill ⁽ⁱ⁾	—	—	—		—		—		53,901		—		—	—	—	—		53,901
Total operating expenses		58,912	60,418	36,910		34,897		38,018		98,037		20,686		12,435	(975)	(1,571)	153,551		204,216
Operating income (loss)		68,777	80,187	26,462		(106,699)	(g)	580		(64,215)		(20,686)		(12,435)	—	—	75,133		(103,162)	(g)
Adjusted EBITDA ^(j)		100,312	98,701	16,013		6,176	(h)	6,718		(2,464)		(4,974)	(k)	(12,435)	—	—	118,069	(k)	89,978	(h)
Additions to non-current assets ^(d)		12,351	7,771	8,964		6,268		2,191		1,146		—		—	N/A	N/A	23,506		15,185
Non-current assets ^(d)		3,190,837	3,259,974	468,782	(e)	459,729	(e)	77,805	(e)	43,948	(e)	2,156		—	N/A	N/A	3,739,580	(e)	3,763,651	(e)
Deferred revenue		1,790,540	1,815,595	438,985		412,815		24,133		14,324		—		—	N/A	N/A	2,253,658		2,242,734
Total assets		3,883,248	3,796,092	998,514		931,724		228,291		149,512		136,528		54,405	N/A	N/A	5,246,581		4,931,733

(a)	Includes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.
(b)	Includes expenses that are not directly attributable to any specific operating segment. Corporate also includes the financial position and operating results of our operations in India, the investments in PLM, Prismah and Cardlytics.
(c)	Includes third party Gross Billings of $148.4 million in the UK and $67.0 million in the US for the three months ended December 31, 2012, compared to third party Gross Billings of $137.6 million in the UK and $56.6 million in the US for the three months ended December 31, 2011. Third party Gross Billings are attributed to a country on the basis of the country where the contractual and management responsibility for the customer resides.
(d)	Non-current assets includes amounts relating to goodwill, intangible assets and property and equipment.
(e)	Includes non-current assets of $418.2 million in the UK and $71.1 million in the US as of December 31, 2012, compared to non-current assets of $408.4 million in the UK and $38.0 million in the US as of December 31, 2011.
(f)	Intercompany revenue and expenses related to the comparative period have been reclassified to conform with the presentation adopted in the current period.
(g)	Includes the impact of the adjustments to the Breakage estimates related to the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs, which resulted in a reduction of $127.1 million to revenue from Loyalty Units, with $113.3 million attributable to the years prior to 2011 and $13.8 million attributable to the first three quarters of 2011. Of the total adjustment, $89.0 million is attributable to the Nectar Program and $38.1 million is attributable to the Air Miles Middle East program.
(h)	The Change in Future Redemption costs for the quarter ended December 31, 2011 includes an unfavorable impact of $11.3 million resulting from the adjustments to the Breakage estimates related to the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs attributable to the first three quarters of 2011.
(i)	The goodwill impairment charge recorded during the year ended December 31, 2011 related to the US proprietary loyalty business.
(j)	A non-GAAP measurement.
(k)	Adjusted EBITDA includes distributions received from an equity-accounted investment, amounting to $15.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2012.

Media
Krista Pawley
416- 352 3794
krista.pawley@aimia.com

JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Karen Keyes
514-205-7163
karen.keyes@aimia.com

Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

/R E P E A T -- Aimia to present fourth quarter and fiscal 2012 results/

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:30:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Jan. 31, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) will issue its fourth quarter 2012 financial results during the evening of Wednesday, February 27, 2013. On Thursday, February 28, 2013 at 8:00 a.m. ET, Aimia will hold its quarterly conference call and webcast during which time Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive, and David Adams, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will discuss the results and address questions from analysts. Media and interested participants may access this call on a listen-only basis. The details of the conference call are as follows:

Date:	Thursday, February 28, 2013

Time:	8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET

By telephone:	1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450
	Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:	English - http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1059043/1151277

	French - http://www.newswire.ca/fr/webcast/detail/1059047/1151283

	Note: this is a listen-only audio webcast. Media Player or Real Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:	An archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:	A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of February 27, 2013 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

Media:
JoAnne Hayes, 416-352-3706, joanne.hayes@aimia.com
Investor Relations:
Trish Moran, 416-352-3728, trish.moran@aimia.com

Aimia named one of Montreal's top employers

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:16:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Feb. 6, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management, is proud to announce that it has been named one of Montreal's Top Employers for 2013 by Mediacorp Canada Inc. and the editors of Canada's Top 100 Employers. Headquartered in Montreal with six locations across Canada, this is the first year that Aimia submitted as one company including its various business operations such as Aeroplan. Aeroplan has been recognized as one of Montreal's Top Employers the previous four years.

"We are very proud of our continued recognition as a top employer in Montreal," said Vince Timpano, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canada, Aimia. "We have more than 1,900 employees across Canada who are the key to our success, so it is critically important that we create an inspiring and highly engaged work environment and a culture that fosters success."

Aimia was selected as one of Montreal's Top Employers for:

Investing in ongoing employee development with tuition subsidies for job-related courses, a range of development opportunities and subsidies for professional accreditation;
Letting everyone share the company's success with a share purchase plan and year-end bonuses available to a large number of employees;
Encouraging giving back to our local communities through paid volunteer time off and through offering employees opportunities to go on employee engagement trips across the world with its Aeroplan Beyond Miles partners to share skills, observe and learn about the essential support they provide, giving them an experience of a lifetime;
Supporting employees who are new parents with maternity and parental leave top-up payments as well as extended health benefit coverage during their leave;
Helping employees balance work and their personal life through alternative work arrangements including flexible hours and shortened work week options;
Assisting employees as they prepare for life after work with retirement planning, generous contributions to a defined benefit pension plan and/or matching RSP contributions.

Now entering its ninth year, Montreal's Top Employers is an annual competition organized by the editors of Canada's Top 100 Employers. This special designation recognizes the Montreal-area employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work based on criteria including: Physical Workplace, Work Atmosphere & Social, Health, Financial & Family Benefits, Vacation & Time Off, Employee Communications, Performance Management, Training & Skills Development and Community Involvement.

For more information, please visit: www.canadastop100.com/montreal.

About Aimia in Canada

Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management, has unique capabilities and proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. In Canada, Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program, as well as a proprietary loyalty division that designs, launches and operates new client programs. Aimia also offers world-class data analytics through its Intelligent Shoppers Solutions suite of tools and has a minority position in Cardlytics, a pioneer of transaction-driven marketing in banking. For more information, please visit: www.aimia.com.

Aimia: JoAnne Hayes 1-416-352-3706 joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Aimia to present fourth quarter and fiscal 2012 results

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 09:30:00 -0500

Date:	Thursday, February 28, 2013

Time:	8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET

By telephone:	1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450
	Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:	English - http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/1059043/1151277

	French - http://www.newswire.ca/fr/webcast/detail/1059047/1151283

	Note: this is a listen-only audio webcast. Media Player or Real Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:	An archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:	A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of February 27, 2013 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

Media:
JoAnne Hayes, 416-352-3706, joanne.hayes@aimia.com
Investor Relations:
Trish Moran, 416-352-3728, trish.moran@aimia.com

Welcome Aboard Aeroplan’s Exclusive Flights to Orlando, Florida for CIBC Aeroplan Cardholders

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 11:30:00 -0500

Montreal, QC, January 9, 2013 – Aeroplan today announced it will reserve three flights for Aeroplan Members who are CIBC Aeroplan cardholders offering up an exclusive getaway from Toronto and from Montreal to Orlando, Florida during the 2013 Spring Break period.

Flight Details:

Depart Montreal to Orlando – March 5, 2013 – Flight AC7004
Depart Orlando to Montreal - March 12, 2013 – Flight AC7005
Depart Toronto to Orlando – March 12, 2013 – Flight AC7002
Depart Orlando to Toronto – March 19, 2011 – Flight AC7003
Depart Toronto to Orlando – March 13, 2013 – Flight AC7002
Depart Orlando to Toronto – March 20, 2013 – Flight AC7003

“Aeroplan is pleased to be working again with our partner CIBC to offer our members who hold a CIBC Aero credit card, a unique flight reward experience to Orlando, Florida during a peak travel period,” said David Klein, Vice President, Marketing & Innovation, Aeroplan. “This is our third edition of the Welcome Aboard Event, and each time we’ve been able to create a flight reward with enhanced service levels and special in-flight extras for our members.”

On each specified Air Canada flight from Toronto and Montreal to and from Orlando, 100 percent of the seats are reserved for Aeroplan Members with a CIBC Aero credit card, along with their guests. These special flights will include complimentary food and beverage service and complimentary baggage in Economy class. As part of the airport experience, there will be a dedicated, branded check-in counter and branded giveaways at the gate.

Aeroplan Members who are CIBC Aero cardholders can redeem 25,000 miles per flight reward for an Economy Class ticket and 50,000 miles per flight reward for an Executive Class ticket.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

Aeroplan Members can now earn more Miles on gas purchases at Esso Stations

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 09:30:00 -0500

Montreal, QC, January 8, 2013 – Aeroplan today announced that Aeroplan Members can now earn even more miles when they purchase Extra Grade gasoline and Supreme Grade gasoline and swipe their Aeroplan Card at more than 1,800 participating Esso stations across Canada.

Aeroplan Members currently earn:

1 mile for every $3 spent on all eligible purchases including: regular gas, car washes and convenience store items

Starting today, Aeroplan Members will also earn:

2 miles for every $3 spent on Extra Grade gasoline
3 miles for every $3 spent on Supreme Grade gasoline

“Last October, we renewed our alliance with Imperial Oil and the Esso Brand to take our relationship to new heights. We’re excited to now work with Imperial Oil to provide our members additional opportunities to earn even more miles on their gasoline purchases at Esso stations,” said David Houston, Vice President, Partnerships, Aeroplan. “Aeroplan is always looking for ways in which we can strengthen the program and this is a great offer for members who drive vehicles that benefit from or require higher octane fuels.”

In addition, members can also earn more miles when they use an Aeroplan-affiliated financial card to pay for their purchase at the pump or in store at Esso stations.

“We know that customers who purchase higher grades of gasoline will seek out retailers who provide added value. We hope that this enhancement to the loyalty offer will encourage members to further participate in the Aeroplan program and seek out Esso stations for their gasoline purchases,” said Andrew Mackay, Retail Manager, Imperial Oil.

For more information or to check out special promotions throughout the year, please visit: www.aeroplan.com.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

About Imperial Oil
Imperial Oil is one of Canada's largest corporations and a leading member of the country's petroleum industry. The company is a major producer of crude oil and natural gas, Canada's largest petroleum refiner, a key petrochemical producer and a leading marketer with coast-to-coast supply and retail service station networks.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

Public & Government Affairs
Imperial Oil
(403) 237-2710

Aimia appoints Beth Horowitz to Board of Directors

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 09:30:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Dec. 20, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Robert Brown, Chairman of the Board, Aimia Inc., is pleased to announce the appointment of Beth Horowitz to Aimia's Board of Directors.

"Beth's extensive strategic expertise and international experience will provide an important complement to the skills and capabilities of Aimia's Board," said Brown. "We will also hugely benefit from her many years driving success within the financial services industry."

A graduate of Cornell University and the Harvard Business School, Ms. Horowitz brings more than 20 years of executive experience, most recently as Chair, President and CEO of AMEX Bank of Canada, a position which she held from 2002 to 2007. Ms. Horowitz is currently a member of the Board of HSBC Bank Canada, a Trustee of the Art Gallery of Ontario, a member of the Dean's Advisory Board of the Schulich Business School and a member of the Advisory Board of Catalyst Canada.

About Aimia
Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking.

Aimia:
JoAnne Hayes
1-416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Aimia Inc. and Grupo Aeromexico S.A.B. de C.V. announce closing of the acquisition by Aimia of an additional 20% equity participation in Premier Loyalty & Marketing, owner and operator of Club Premier

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:30:00 -0500

MONTREAL and MEXICO CITY, Dec. 17, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") and Grupo Aeromexico S.A.B. de C.V. ("Grupo Aeromexico" or "Aeromexico"), announced today the successful closing of the previously announced acquisition by Aimia from Aeromexico of an additional 20% equity participation in Premier Loyalty & Marketing, S.A.P.I. de C.V. ("PLM"), owner and operator of Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program, for US$88 million.

Aimia's and Grupo Aeromexico's equity participations in PLM now approximate 49% and 51%, respectively. Aimia and Grupo Aeromexico will continue their close collaboration and support of PLM's management team in the execution of their strategy to enable PLM to achieve its full potential as Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program.

About Aimia

Aimia is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking.

About Premier Loyalty & Marketing, S.A.P.I. de C.V.

Premier Loyalty & Marketing, S.A.P.I. de C.V. owns and operates Club Premier, the first frequent flyer program established in Latin America and Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program. The company's objective is to reward the preference and loyalty of Club Premier's members through the accrual and redemption of Premier Kilometers. Members earn Premier Kilometers for flying with Aeromexico, Aeromexico Connect, SkyTeam airlines, and other airlines; for using American Express and Banamex co-branded credit cards; from converting loyalty currency issued by other premium credit cards into Premier Kilometers or by purchasing a variety of goods or services from their favourite retailers and service providers who are participating loyalty partners. While members primarily redeem their Premier Kilometers for flights on Aeromexico and other affiliated airlines, they can also exchange them for a wide variety of catalogue and experiential rewards available through www.clubpremier.com.

About Grupo Aeromexico

Grupo Aeromexico, S.A.B. de C.V. is a holding company whose subsidiaries are engaged in commercial aviation in Mexico and the promotion of passenger loyalty programs. Its fleet includes Boeing 777, 767 and 737 aircraft and the latest Embraer 145, 170 and 190 models. The carrier announced a major expansion plan in 2011 to acquire 20 new and wholly owned aircraft including ten Embraer 190 and ten Boeing 737-8 NG airplanes. Aeromexico will take delivery of nine 787-8 Dreamliners over the next three years. Moreover, in 2012, Aeromexico announced the most significant fleet investment program in Mexican aviation history: the acquisition of 100 new aircraft, including 90 Boeing 737 MAX and 10 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner airplanes.

Grupo Aeromexico operates its main hub out of Terminal 2 in the Mexico City International Airport, and offers over 600 daily flights to different cities in Mexico, the United States, Canada, Central and South America, Europe and Asia.

Aeromexico is a founding member of SkyTeam, the global airline alliance partnering 19 airlines: Aeroflot, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Air Europa, Air France, Alitalia, China Airlines, China Eastern, China Southern, CSA Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air, Middle East Airlines, Saudia, TAROM Romanian Air Transport, Vietnam Airlines and Xiamen Airlines. SkyTeam offers all partner airline passengers a large global network with more destinations and frequencies, and improved connectivity. Passengers can earn and redeem miles through the different airline partners' loyalty programs and enjoy the benefits offered at SkyTeam's 520 VIP airport lounges around the world. SkyTeam offers its 537 million annual passengers more than 14.900 daily flights to 993 destinations in 186 countries www.skyteam.com.

Aimia

Media
JoAnne Hayes
1-416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Trish Moran
1-416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Grupo Aeromexico

Media
Carlos Torres
52 (55) 9132 4128
ctorres@aeromexico.com.mx

Analysts & Investors
Miriam Kai
52 (55) 9132 4257
investor.relations@aeromexico.com.mx

Aimia Sponsors Equitas and Pay It Forward

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Trust and Reciprocity defined as fundamental principles of Aimia's Social Purpose

MONTREAL, QC, Dec. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - In recognition of International Human Rights Day, Aimia is announcing sponsorships with Equitas, a global leader in human rights education, and Pay It Forward, a social movement promoting simple acts of human kindness. These new relationships will foster trust and reciprocity, the fundamental principles underlying Aimia's social purpose efforts.

"Our business is about engaging people in trusted and valued relationships. Adopting a global social purpose framework that promotes these principles will bring people together to create economic, environmental and social benefits worldwide," said Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive, Aimia. "I strongly believe that this integrated approach across Aimia will strengthen our business and employment brand, fuel innovation, contribute to shareholder value and inspire loyalty."

Aimia's contribution to Equitas represents a total value of $575,000 over the course of the three year sponsorship agreement. Aimia's contribution will fund the International Human Rights Training Program (IHRTP) bringing together human rights educators from approximately 60 countries every year to gain new knowledge and skills to channel action for change around the world. As part of the agreement, Aimia will leverage its loyalty management and data analytic expertise to support Equitas' network of more than 1,800 registered human rights practitioners and educators, as well as helping Equitas uncover insights from its data that will fuel continuous improvement of the IHRTP for years to come.

"Like Aimia, we believe empowering people with the knowledge and skills to promote human rights values is critical to building trusting relationships based on respect, inclusion and acceptance that lead to positive change and social cohesion in communities," said Ian Hamilton Executive Director, Equitas. "Aimia's generous support of Equitas and our International Human Rights Training Program will enable us to continue advancing equality, social justice and respect for human dignity in Canada and around the world."

Aimia will also support the Pay it Forward (PIF) movement by funding distribution of 100,000 PIF bracelets throughout the PIF global network. As a symbol of trust and reciprocity, PIF bracelets act as a reminder of the power of paying random acts of kindness forward.

About Aimia's Social Purpose Framework

Aimia's social purpose is the common framework for its 30 offices operating in 20 countries, providing global alignment for local and regional initiatives in all areas of corporate social responsibility including ethical business conduct, environmental stewardship, citizenship and beyond.

In community involvement, Aimia's social purpose translates in a focus on education, development and arts & culture, strengthening Aimia's ability to effect greater positive change in the communities where it operates.

For more information on Aimia's corporate social responsibility activities, click here to view a copy of Aimia's 2011 CSR Report.

About Aimia

Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in merchant-funded transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking.

Aimia is a carbon-neutral Canadian public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM) and has over 3,800 employees in more than 20 countries around the world. For more information about Aimia, please visit: www.aimia.com.

About Equitas

Equitas - International Centre for Human Rights Education is a not-for-profit organization that advances equality, social justice and respect for human dignity through innovative education programs in Canada and around the world. Equitas equips frontline human rights defenders and educators, government institutions and children and youth with knowledge, skills and values to build a global culture of human rights. For more information about Equitas, please visit: www.equitas.org.

About Pay it Forward

Pay It Forward is an organization whose mission it is to inspire and educate individuals of all ages about the impact they can have on our world through simple acts of kindness. For more information on Pay it Forward, please visit: www.pifexperience.org

Please contact:

Edelman: Tom Sargent 1-416-849-8930 thomas.sargent@edelman.com
Aimia: JoAnne Hayes 1-416-352-3706 joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Aimia appoints Michael Zea, President & CEO, U.S. Region

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 17:09:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Dec. 5, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Rupert Duchesne , Aimia's Group Chief Executive is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Zea as President and Chief Executive Officer for the U.S. Region. Zea will be responsible for leading Aimia's operations in the U.S., with a critical focus on new business development and driving key strategic growth initiatives for that market.

"Michael's extensive strategic expertise and international experience will leverage the capabilities embedded in our U.S. Region to achieve its full potential," said Duchesne. "We will also hugely benefit from his many years driving successful organizational transformations across a wide range of industries."

In this role, Zea will take on full commercial and operational responsibility for our growth in this critical region and be a member of the Aimia's global executive committee.

Zea brings more than 20 years of strategic consulting experience, most recently as a partner at McKinsey & Company, where he has been an acknowledged client and knowledge entrepreneur within the firm and in 2012 selected to lead McKinsey's Loyalty Marketing Service line globally. Prior to McKinsey, Zea enjoyed over a decade of success with Oliver Wyman , having joined that firm as the founding associate of the Chicago office, and was one of three selected to launch that firm's Aviation practice and managed the firm's New York office from 2003-2005.

A graduate of Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern, earlier in his career, Zea worked in sales, pricing, yield management and distribution at several major airlines, including United and American. On the philanthropy front, Zea is a Trustee on the Board of The Nature Conservancy of Connecticut, and Alexandra's Playground.

Liz Graham , previously Chief Executive Officer for both the U.S. & Asia Pacific, will turn now her focus to solidifying the Asia Pacific Region while continuing to provide leadership to the global enterprise as Aimia's Chief Operating Officer.

About Aimia

Edelman:
Lee Lubarsky
1-212-642-7759
lee.lubarsky@edelman.com

Aimia:
JoAnne Hayes
1-416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Aeroplan Welcomes Shenzhen Airlines as its Newest Travel Partner

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 09:30:00 -0500

Montreal, QC, November 29, 2012 –Aeroplan today announced the addition of Shenzhen Airlines to its roster of airline travel partners. Starting today, Aeroplan Members can accumulate and redeem Aeroplan Miles for travel with Shenzhen Airlines of China, bringing the total number of airline partners to 34.

“Bringing Shenzhen Airlines into the program is a great addition as we’ll provide our members with more flight options for the international traveller,” said David Houston, Vice President, Partnerships, Aeroplan. “We’re very excited for this partnership as Shenzhen Airlines will help us to grow our member offer with more destinations across Mainland China, the southern part of China and neighbouring countries.”

Shenzhen Airlines was founded in November 1992 and was the first Special Economy Zone in China and the pioneer of China’s “Reform and Opening Up.” Shenzhen Airlines is China’s fifth largest airline with 111 aircraft, 3,290 weekly flights serving 64 destinations. In 2011, Shenzhen carried over 18 million passengers, became the partner of the 26th Universiade and launched Skytrax four-star ranking audit to continuously improve their service quality.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

In 2011, approximately 2.3 million rewards were issued to members including more than 1.5 million flights on Air Canada and Star Alliance carriers which offer travel to more than 1,000 destinations worldwide. In addition to flights, members also have access to over 1,000 exciting specialty, merchandise, hotel, car rental and experiential rewards.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

Aimia Inc. announces closing of offering

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 09:23:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Nov. 22, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") announced today the successful closing of the previously announced public offering of $200,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 4.35% Senior Secured Notes Series 5 maturing on January 22, 2018 (the "Notes").

Aimia intends to use approximately $88 million of the net proceeds of the offering to finance the previously announced acquisition of an additional 20% equity interest in Premier Loyalty & Marketing, S.A.P.I. de C.V., owner and operator of Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program, and related fees and expenses, and to use the remaining net proceeds of approximately $110 million for general corporate purposes.

The offering of the Notes was made through an underwriting syndicate led by CIBC World Markets Inc., RBC Dominion Securities Inc. and TD Securities Inc.

About Aimia

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are based on assumptions and are subject to important risks and uncertainties. Any forecasts or forward-looking predictions or statements cannot be relied upon due to, among other things, changing external events and general uncertainties of the business and its corporate structure. Results indicated in forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results for a number of reasons, including without limitation, dependency on top accumulation partners and clients, conflicts of interest, greater than expected redemptions for rewards, regulatory matters, retail market/economic conditions, industry competition, Air Canada liquidity issues, Air Canada or travel industry disruptions, airline industry changes and increased airline costs, supply and capacity costs, unfunded future redemption costs, failure to safeguard databases and consumer privacy, changes to coalition loyalty programs, seasonal nature of the business, other factors and prior performance, foreign operations, legal proceedings, reliance on key personnel, labour relations, pension liability, technological disruptions and inability to use third party software, failure to protect intellectual property rights, interest rate and currency fluctuations, leverage and restrictive covenants in current and future indebtedness, uncertainty of dividend payments, managing growth, credit ratings, as well as the other factors identified in this news release and throughout Aimia's public disclosure record on file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Aimia's expectations as of November 22, 2012, and are subject to change after such date. However, Aimia disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

The Notes have not been, nor will be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons absent registration or applicable exemption from the registration requirement of such Act and applicable state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

Media
JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts
Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Aeroplan Welcomes Free The Children and MusiCounts to its Beyond Miles Program

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 09:30:00 -0500

'Like' Aeroplan on Facebook and Aeroplan will donate 10 miles to its charitable partners

Montreal, QC, November 20, 2012 – Aeroplan is pleased to welcome Free The Children and MusiCounts as its newest founding charitable partners in its Beyond Miles program, launching the partnerships with a donation of 1 million Aeroplan Miles to each organization. Starting today, Aeroplan Members will be able to donate miles to Free The Children and MusiCounts online at www.aeroplan.com/donate.

“We are excited to be adding these two organizations that focus on youth and education to our Beyond Miles Program,” said Kevin O’Brien, Chief Commercial Officer, Aeroplan. “Through MusiCounts, members will now be able to donate their miles to a Canadian organization that supports music education in schools across Canada and through Free The Children, members can donate their miles to the world’s largest network of children helping children through education and their youth empowerment program.”

Free The Children will use the miles to minimize travel costs associated with We Day, which takes place in almost every major city across Canada, and engages more than 100,000 youth in attendance on some of the most pressing social justice issues of today. The miles will also be used to support its international development activities in eight countries around the world, through which the organization has built more than 650 schools and provides daily education to more than 55,000 children in need. In addition, Aeroplan will have unique items from Free The Children, such as “We Day” tickets and exciting experiential rewards in which members can use their miles. Visit: www.aeroplan.com/activities.

“The generous miles given to us by Aeroplan and its members will support our domestic and international programming, helping to transform young people around the world into active local and global citizens,” said Marc Kielburger, Founder, Free The Children. “Aeroplan’s Beyond Miles is an incredible program that enables its members to give back in a different way to support hundreds of different causes. We are truly honoured to be part of this program.”

MusiCounts, Canada’s music education charity, will use Aeroplan Miles to help them in their mission to ensure that children in Canada, regardless of socio-economic circumstances, have access to music programs through their schools. MusiCounts includes Band Aid musical instrument grants, the MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award, Scholarships and other music education initiatives.

"We are honoured to be joining the nine other charitable organizations in Aeroplan's Beyond Miles program, as a founding partner," said Allan Reid, Director of MusiCounts. "MusiCounts has been supporting music education in Canada for 15 years and we're thrilled to put even more instruments in the hands of children through the support of Aeroplan members who have had their own lives enriched by music."

Aeroplan also announced that starting today until December 20th; Aeroplan will donate 10 Aeroplan Miles, to be divided equally among its ten Beyond Miles founding charitable partners, for each ‘Like’ that Aeroplan receives on its Facebook page, and 5 miles every time one of our members “Shares” the initiative, up to a total of 1 million Aeroplan Miles. To 'Like' Aeroplan on Facebook, please visit: www.facebook.com/aeroplan.

All miles donated for this initiative will be split equally amongst all of Aeroplan's charitable partners including: The Air Canada Foundation, Earth Day Canada, Engineers Without Borders-Canada, Free The Children, Médecins Sans Frontières-Canada, MusiCounts, Schools Without Borders, The Stephen Lewis Foundation, Veterinarians Without Borders-Canada and War Child Canada. Each of these ten Canadian organizations is committed to improving lives and enriching communities across Canada and abroad.

Community Investment at Aeroplan
Aeroplan's Beyond Miles program invites Aeroplan Members to join us in supporting ten Canadian charitable organizations through the donation of Aeroplan Miles. To donate miles, members simply visit www.aeroplan.com/donate. Since the program was launched in 2006, more than 265 million Aeroplan Miles have been donated by members. Aeroplan offsets 100 per cent of all carbon emissions from flights taken by Beyond Miles partners using donated miles. In 2012, Aeroplan donated 1 million miles to each of its partner organizations. Aeroplan Members can also automatically donate two per cent of all miles accumulated to any Beyond Miles partner of the member’s choice. Members interested in donating two per cent of their Aeroplan Miles simply visit their profile page on aeroplan.com, select the donation opt-in and the Beyond Miles partner they would like their miles to go to. In addition, Aeroplan also has a Charitable Pooling program that allows members to use miles to support individuals, families or local grass roots community charities in need. More information is available at www.aeroplan.com/donate.

Aeroplan's Beyond Miles program and other community investment initiatives can now be found on Twitter. Follow us at: http://twitter.com/BeyondMiles.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com

Aimia Announces $200 Million Senior Secured Notes Offering

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 19:08:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Nov. 19, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) ("Aimia") announced today that it has agreed to issue to a syndicate of underwriters for distribution to the public $200 million aggregate principal amount of 4.35% Senior Secured Notes Series 5 due January 22, 2018 (the "Notes"). The Notes were priced at $997.81 per $1,000 principal amount, for an effective yield of 4.399% per annum if held to maturity. The offering is expected to close on or about November 22, 2012, subject to customary closing conditions.

The syndicate of underwriters is led by CIBC World Markets Inc., RBC Dominion Securities Inc. and TD Securities Inc.

The Notes will bear interest at the rate of 4.35% per annum and the interest on the Notes will be payable semi-annually in arrears on January 22 and July 22 of each year, commencing on January 22, 2013. The Notes will be secured by certain present and future undertakings, property and assets of Aimia and certain of its subsidiaries, and will be direct secured debt obligations of Aimia ranking equally and pari passu, including with respect to security interests, with all other present and future unsubordinated indebtedness for borrowed money of Aimia or Aimia Canada Inc., as the case may be.

The Notes have been assigned provisional credit ratings of BBB with a stable trend by DBRS Limited and BBB- by Standard & Poors Ratings Services.

The Notes will be offered by way of a prospectus supplement to the amended and restated base shelf prospectus dated April 8, 2011 filed with the securities regulatory authorities in all provinces and territories of Canada.

****

About Aimia

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are based on assumptions and are subject to important risks and uncertainties. Any forecasts or forward-looking predictions or statements cannot be relied upon due to, among other things, changing external events and general uncertainties of the business and its corporate structure. Results indicated in forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results for a number of reasons, including without limitation, dependency on top accumulation partners and clients, conflicts of interest, greater than expected redemptions for rewards, regulatory matters, retail market/economic conditions, industry competition, Air Canada liquidity issues, Air Canada or travel industry disruptions, airline industry changes and increased airline costs, supply and capacity costs, unfunded future redemption costs, failure to safeguard databases and consumer privacy, changes to coalition loyalty programs, seasonal nature of the business, other factors and prior performance, foreign operations, legal proceedings, reliance on key personnel, labour relations, pension liability, technological disruptions and inability to use third party software, failure to protect intellectual property rights, interest rate and currency fluctuations, leverage and restrictive covenants in current and future indebtedness, uncertainty of dividend payments, managing growth, credit ratings, as well as the other factors identified in this news release and throughout Aimia's public disclosure record on file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Aimia's expectations as of November 19, 2012, and are subject to change after such date. However, Aimia disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

Media
JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts
Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Nectar Innovates App by Adding Location Based Technology

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 09:00:00 -0500

From today, the popular Nectar smartphone app, which has had over 1 million downloads since launch, will offer collectors the chance to take advantage of personalised reminders of Nectar offers when they are out and about.

The introduction of location based technology will mean that users of the app can choose to be reminded about their “live” offers when they’re in the vicinity of a Nectar partner such as Sainsbury’s or Homebase.

Nectar will use cell tower and WiFi navigation technology to help pinpoint the Nectar collector, providing a simple pop-up message when they’re close to partners they’ve opted to receive messages about. Collectors have control over how they would like to use the service choosing the time of day, frequency and distance from the partner that they would like to receive the alerts.

The addition of this service follows feedback from collectors who highlighted that they often forget about offers when they’re out shopping.

James Frost, Nectar Marketing Director, said: “This latest development is intended to provide a helpful service allowing collectors to take advantage of more offers. We’ve taken on board lots of feedback from collectors to ensure that the service can be configured in a way that they are comfortable with.

“After the successful take-up of the Nectar app we’re confident that this innovation will be positively received.”

The Nectar app with added location based functionality is available for free from the Android Market now and the Apple App Store from the end of November. Existing users will need to download the update from the appropriate app store.

For further press information, contact:
James Regal or Katy Jameson at Clarion Communications
0207 343 3108 / 3142 jregal@clarioncomms.co.uk / kjameson@clarioncomms.co.uk

Notes to Editors:

Features of the Nectar App:

Exclusive and personalised Nectar points offers relevant to the individual collector
Ability to collect points at over 500 online retailers via Nectar eShops
A store and reward locator to pinpoint the nearest location to collect and spend points
Highlights of all the Nectar Daily Deals (with up to 70% off some deals)
Instant access to check Nectar points balances on-the-go
Search and collect capabilities with Yahoo!
Location Based deal reminders

About Nectar:

Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.
In 2012, Nectar is celebrating 10 years of rewarding British shoppers and has given back over £2 billion of rewards to collectors, including money off shopping, travel, days out and cinema tickets.
Over 18.5 million collectors earn Nectar points when shopping for groceries, doing DIY, booking a holiday, paying household bills, buying petrol and even getting their car serviced. Collectors also earn Nectar points every time they shop online via nectar.com at over 500 leading online retailers.
Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.
For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

Aimia declares dividends

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:05:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Nov. 8, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM) announced today that the Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share, payable on December 31, 2012 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 17, 2012.

The Board has also declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.40625 per Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series 1, payable on December 31, 2012 to the holders of record at the close of business on December 17, 2012.

Dividends paid by Aimia to Canadian residents on both its common and preferred shares are "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes.

About Aimia

Aimia is a Canadian public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM) and has over 3,400 employees in more than 20 countries around the world. For more information about Aimia, please visit www.aimia.com.

Media
JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts
Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Aimia reports third quarter results

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:01:00 -0500

Coalition Programs Drive Strong Free Cash Flow Performance

EMEA posts fifth consecutive quarter of double digit gross billings growth
Canadian region delivers solid financial performance despite a slowdown in consumer spending
i2c joint venture formed with Sainsbury's
Acquisition of Excellence in Motivation (EIM) enhances full suite product portfolio and geographic presence in the US market
Agreement reached for acquisition of additional 20 per cent in Club Premier
Minority investment in China Rewards provides strategic entrance into key growth market
2012 guidance confirmed; now expecting consolidated Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow at or above the top end of the target ranges


THIRD QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS	Three Months Ended September 30,		Year Over Year ³
(in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)	2012	2011	per cent Change
	As Reported		As Reported	Constant Currency¹
Gross Billings	537.0	541.8	(0.9)	(0.7)
Total Revenue	498.8	501.4	(0.5)	(0.4)
Net Earnings	29.8	25.1	18.5	na
Earnings per Common Share	0.15	0.13	15.4	na
Adjusted EBITDA²	93.6	104.2	(10.2)	(9.8)
Free Cash Flow before Dividends Paid ²	129.9	124.8	4.1	na

¹	Constant currency excludes the translation effect of foreign operations on consolidated results. For more information on constant currency, please refer to the Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information section of this news release.
²	A non-GAAP financial measurement. Please refer to the Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information section of this news release.
³	Discrepancies in variances may arise due to rounding.

MONTREAL, Nov. 8, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - (TSX: AIM) Aimia today reported its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2012. All financial information is in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

"We have been very successful in our pursuit of global growth," said Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive. "We recently announced several important initiatives that will support and strengthen our strategic vision as the recognized world leader in loyalty management, including an agreement with Grupo Aeromexico to increase our ownership in Club Premier by an additional 20 per cent and the acquisition of Excellence in Motivation. Critical to all of this is the continued strength of our existing businesses."

Third Quarter Highlights (Period ended September 30, 2012 versus period ended September 30, 2011)

Consolidated - A Solid Quarter - Record Nine Month Performance - On Track For Guidance

Third quarter Gross Billings of $537.0 million, a decrease of 0.9 per cent or 0.7 per cent on a constant currency basis
Nine month Gross Billings of $1.6 billion, an increase of 1.0 per cent or 0.8 per cent on a constant currency basis
For the quarter, the decrease in Gross Billings was due to lower Gross Billings from proprietary loyalty services, offset in part by the strong performance from coalition loyalty programs in the EMEA region
Adjusted EBITDA of $93.6 million in the quarter, a decrease of 10.2 per cent
Nine month record Adjusted EBITDA of $284.1 million, an increase of 12.5 per cent versus the comparable period in 2011
Adjusted EBITDA in the third quarter 2011 was favourably affected by the impact of a $4.9 million revision of an estimate associated with online store activities. In addition, Adjusted EBITDA in 2012 includes $1.8 million of EIM acquisition-related costs

Canada - Operating Leverage Continues To Drive Performance

Third quarter Gross Billings of $311.1 million compared with $321.3 million in the same period of 2011, a decrease of 3.2 per cent
Gross Billings decrease in the third quarter due to reduced volumes in the proprietary loyalty financial vertical, a decrease in airline partner activity including a reduction in accumulation at Air Canada and offset in part by an increase in financial partner activity reflecting an increase in the number of active credit cards despite a decrease in spend per credit card due to weakening economic conditions
Adjusted EBITDA of $91.7 million in the third quarter, a decrease of 7.9 per cent compared to the prior year period
Adjusted EBITDA was negatively impacted by a higher redemption cost per Aeroplan Mile due to reinvestment in the value proposition related to promotional activities in the quarter
Aeroplan Miles issued decreased by 0.6 per cent in the quarter, while total Aeroplan Miles redeemed increased 2.4 per cent in the quarter compared to the same period in 2011

Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) - Fifth Consecutive Quarter of Double Digit Gross Billings Growth - Strong Momentum Continues

Third quarter Gross Billings of $160.8 million, an increase of 14.9 per cent or 16.3 per cent on a constant currency basis
Adjusted EBITDA of $17.2 million in the quarter, an increase of 0.3 per cent or 2.7 per cent on a constant currency basis
Nectar UK points issued in the third quarter increased by 10.5 per cent compared to the same period in 2011, driven by strong underlying growth at Sainsbury's and British Gas, as well as growth from new sponsors
During the quarter Nectar UK announced a major new partnership with eBay, the UK's largest online marketplace with 17 million unique monthly visitors. Nectar card holders will be able to collect points automatically when they shop on eBay.
Redemption activity for the Nectar Program increased by 10.0 per cent in the quarter mainly driven by an increase in the number of Nectar Points in circulation
In the third quarter, Nectar Italia points issued increased by 7.3 per cent, while Nectar Italia points redeemed increased significantly consistent with members having increased availability of points in their accounts and the program's growth
Gross Billings for Intelligent Shopper Solutions (ISS) increased by 22.4 per cent resulting from growth in existing international contracts as well as services provided in the UK
During the quarter Aimia announced the creation of a new joint venture with Sainsbury's. The new venture, to be known as i2c, will offer suppliers more comprehensive multi-channel marketing solutions in and around Sainsbury's stores and online.

US & Asia Pacific - US Stabilized But Still Challenging - Strategic Initiatives To Drive Growth

Third quarter Gross Billings of $66.4 million, a decrease of 18.8 per cent or 19.7 per cent on a constant currency basis compared to the same period of 2011. Excluding the impact of the Qantas exit, Gross Billings were down 4.9 per cent or 5.9 per cent on a constant currency basis
Third quarter Adjusted EBITDA of $(0.7) million. Excluding EIM acquisition-related costs of $1.8 million, Adjusted EBITDA would have been $1.1 million in the quarter
The US continues to be an extremely challenging environment, however, the region is making good strides in terms of stabilizing, repositioning and focusing on higher value-add strategic loyalty services
Strategic initiatives undertaken:

EIM acquisition expands the full suite product portfolio and geographic presence in the US market
agreement to increase Aimia's ownership in Interact from 40 per cent to 100 per cent with a $2 million investment. Interact is the leader in Indonesia's rapidly emerging loyalty sector with a solid portfolio of blue chip clients, including Nestle and Mazda
agreement to co-invest up to $5 million each with Points International Ltd. in China Rewards. China Rewards is a new loyalty program partnered with China Union Pay, one of the world's largest network operators and the only domestic payment card in China.

Club Premier - Strong Performance Continues - Agreement Reached For Additional Investment
Club Premier continues to perform exceptionally well. It generated Gross Billings of more than US$34 million this quarter, an increase of 17 per cent over the same period last year. Year-over-year, the number of members and commercial partners has increased by 10 per cent and 28 per cent, respectively.

On October 29, 2012, Aimia and Grupo Aeromexico announced an agreement in principle for the acquisition by Aimia of an additional 20 per cent equity participation in Premier Loyalty & Marketing, S.A.P.I. de C.V. (PLM). PLM's fair value has been established at US$518 million and Aimia will pay US$88 million which includes a discount agreed to at the time of Aimia's initial investment in PLM in September 2010. The transaction is expected to close before the end of 2012. After closing, Aimia's and Grupo Aeromexico's equity participations in PLM will approximate 49 per cent and 51 per cent respectively.

Cash Flow and Financial Position
At September 30, 2012, Aimia had $337.3 million of cash and cash equivalents, $25.3 million of restricted cash, $43.8 million of short-term investments and $312.9 million of long-term investments in bonds, for a total of $719.3 million.

Aimia's Free Cash Flow (before dividends paid) was $129.9 million for the third quarter of 2012 compared to $124.8 million for the third quarter of 2011. Free Cash Flow in the quarter increased year over year primarily due to an increase in cash from operating activities including lower cash taxes and lower capital expenditures.

Dividends Declared
Common Shares
The Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share, payable on December 31, 2012 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 17, 2012.

Preferred Shares
The Board also declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.40625 per Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series 1, payable on December 31, 2012 to the holders of record at the close of business on December 17, 2012.

Dividends paid by Aimia to Canadian residents on both its common and preferred shares are "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes.

2012 Outlook
We are reconfirming the 2012 guidance provided in our February 22, 2012 earnings press release, as updated on September 20, 2012. In fact, we now expect to report consolidated Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow at or above the top end of the target ranges. However, in order to meet our outlook for Gross Billings in Canada and on a consolidated basis, we will need to finish the year on a strong note, with robust credit card spend during the holiday season. For the year ending December 31, 2012, Aimia expects to report the following:


Key Financial Metric	Target Range (February 22, 2012)	Target Range (updated September 20, 2012)	Target Range (updated November 8, 2012)
Consolidated Outlook
Gross Billings Growth¹	Between 3% and 5%	Lower end of range	No change
Adjusted EBITDA²	Between $370 and $380 million	Upper end of range	At or above the top end of the range
Free Cash Flow^2,3	Between $220 million and $240 million	No change	At or above the top end of the range
Capital Expenditures	To approximate $55 million	No change	No change
Income Taxes	Current income tax rate is anticipated to approximate 27% in Canada and 17% in Italy. The Corporation expects no significant cash income taxes will be incurred in the rest of its foreign operations.	No change	No change
Business Segment Gross Billings Growth Outlook
Canada	Between 2% and 4%	Between 1% and 2%	No change
EMEA	Between 8% and 11%	Between 11% and 13%	No change
US & APAC¹	Between -2% and 2%	Between -9% and -7%	No change
Other
Nectar Italia	Greater than €60 million in Gross Billings	No change	No change

Notes:

The Gross Billings growth guidance excludes the effect of a client loss (Qantas) in APAC at the end of the first quarter of 2012. The target growth ranges are based on 2011 reported Gross Billings, excluding $40 million related to Qantas. The client loss will have a negligible impact on Adjusted EBITDA.
The Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow outlook range includes an assumption of planned incremental operating expenses in business development activities, principally in the U.S., India and Brazil, technology platform related expenditures that are operating in nature and additional brand related expenses associated with our new branding, which in total will approximate $20 million in 2012.
Free Cash Flow before dividends.

The above guidance excludes the effects of fluctuations in currency exchange rates. In addition, Aimia made a number of economic and market assumptions in preparing its 2012 forecasts, including assumptions regarding the performance of the economies in which the Corporation operates and market competition and tax laws applicable to the Corporation's operations. The Corporation cautions that the assumptions used to prepare the above forecasts for 2012, although reasonable at the time they were made, may prove to be incorrect or inaccurate. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our expectations as set forth in this news release. The outlook provided constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and should be read in conjunction with the "Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" section.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
In order to provide a better understanding of the results, the following indicators are used:

Adjusted Net Earnings
Adjusted Net Earnings provides a measurement of profitability calculated on a basis consistent with Adjusted EBITDA. Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation are adjusted to exclude Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology, share of net earnings (loss) of equity-accounted investments and impairment charges. Adjusted Net Earnings includes the Change in deferred revenue and Change in Future Redemption Costs, net of the income tax effect and non-controlling interest effect (where applicable) on these items at an entity level basis.

Free Cash Flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities, as reported in accordance with GAAP, less adjustments for:

(a) total capital expenditures as reported in accordance with GAAP; and
(b) dividends, when stipulated, unless deducted in arriving at cash flows from operating activities.

Q3 2012 Conference Call / Audio Webcast
Aimia will host a conference call to discuss its third quarter 2012 financial results at 8:00 a.m. ET on Friday, November 9, 2012. The call can be accessed by dialing 1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450 for the Toronto area. The call will be simultaneously audio webcast at: http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/891083/950093

A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of November 8, 2012 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx and an archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

About Aimia

Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking. Aimia is a Canadian public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM) and has over 3,400 employees in more than 20 countries around the world. For more information about Aimia, please visit www.aimia.com.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Aimia's expectations as of November 8, 2012, and are subject to change after such date. However, Aimia disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

SUMMARY OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS AND RECONCILIATION OF EBITDA, ADJUSTED EBITDA, ADJUSTED NET EARNINGS AND FREE CASH FLOW


			Three Months Ended September 30,		Nine Months Ended September 30,		%?
*(in thousands of Canadian Dollars, except share and per share information)*			2012	2011^(f)	2012	2011^(f)	Q3	YTD
Gross Billings			537,030	541,819	1,627,968	1,612,117	(0.9)	1.0
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units			398,885	384,651	1,198,895	1,135,593	3.7	5.6
Revenue from Loyalty Units			361,616	345,150	1,146,476	1,069,389	4.8	7.2
Revenue from proprietary loyalty services			104,021	128,549	334,249	404,994	(19.1)	(17.5)
Other revenue			33,144	27,713	90,014	80,839	19.6	11.3
Total revenue			498,781	501,412	1,570,739	1,555,222	(0.5)	1.0
Cost of rewards and direct costs			(285,978)	(283,733)	(888,274)	(909,086)	0.8	(2.3)
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization ^(a)			212,803	217,679	682,465	646,136	(2.2)	5.6
Depreciation and amortization			(9,407)	(8,419)	(26,412)	(24,335)	11.7	8.5
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			(20,788)	(23,109)	(62,403)	(69,331)	(10.0)	(10.0)
Gross margin			182,608	186,151	593,650	552,470	(1.9)	7.5
Operating expenses			(131,301)	(130,867)	(413,296)	(408,332)	0.3	1.2
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			20,788	23,109	62,403	69,331	(10.0)	(10.0)
Operating income before amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			72,095	78,393	242,757	213,469	(8.0)	13.7
Depreciation and amortization			9,407	8,419	26,412	24,335	11.7	8.5
EBITDA^(a)(c)			81,502	86,812	269,169	237,804	(6.1)	13.2
Adjustments:
	Change in deferred revenue
		Gross Billings	537,030	541,819	1,627,968	1,612,117
		Revenue	(498,781)	(501,412)	(1,570,739)	(1,555,222)
	Change in Future Redemption Costs^(b)		(26,147)	(23,000)	(42,282)	(42,042)
		(Change in Net Loyalty Units outstanding x Average Cost of Rewards per Loyalty Unit for the period)
Subtotal of Adjustments			12,102	17,407	14,947	14,853
Adjusted EBITDA^(c)			93,604	104,219	284,116	252,657	(10.2)	12.5
Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			28,210	26,066	108,355	66,589
Weighted average number of shares			172,034,083	177,253,111	172,683,579	180,956,779
Earnings per common share^(d)			0.15	0.13	0.58	0.32
Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			28,210	26,066	108,355	66,589
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			20,788	23,109	62,403	69,331
Share of net (earnings) loss of equity-accounted investments			(576)	669	(3,291)	(5,859)
Adjusted EBITDA Adjustments (from above)			12,102	17,407	14,947	14,853
Tax on adjustments^(e)			619	888	5,373	4,658
Non-controlling interests share on adjustments above			23	(553)	(1,354)	(1,314)
Adjusted Net Earnings^(c)			61,166	67,586	186,433	148,258	(9.5)	25.7
Adjusted Net Earnings per common share^(c)(d)			0.34	0.37	1.03	0.77
Cash flow from operations			140,436	138,604	256,873	214,918
Capital expenditures			(10,516)	(13,779)	(34,449)	(29,734)
Dividends			(30,364)	(29,056)	(89,618)	(84,581)
Free Cash Flow^(c)			99,556	95,769	132,806	100,603	4.0	32.0
Total assets			4,986,187	4,997,980	4,986,187	4,997,980
Total long-term liabilities			1,577,327	1,335,740	1,577,327	1,335,740
Total dividends			30,364	29,056	89,618	84,581
Total dividends per preferred share			0.406	0.406	1.219	1.219
Total dividends per common share			0.160	0.150	0.470	0.425


(a)		Excludes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.
(b)		The per unit cost derived from this calculation is retroactively applied to all prior periods with the effect of revaluing the Future Redemption Cost liability on the basis of the latest available average unit cost.
(c)		A non-GAAP measurement.
(d)		After deducting dividends declared on preferred shares.
(e)		The effective tax rates, calculated as income tax expense / earnings before taxes for the period on an entity level basis, are applied to the related entity level adjustments noted above.
(f)		These figures do not include any effect attributable to the change in Breakage estimates made during the fourth quarter of 2011 in the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs.

SEGMENTED INFORMATION

At September 30, 2012, the Corporation had three reportable and operating segments: Canada, EMEA and US & APAC. The table below summarizes the relevant financial information by operating segment:


	Three months ended September 30,
*(in thousands of Canadian dollars)*	2012	2011^(f)	2012		2011^(f)(g)		2012		2011^(f)		2012	2011	2012	2011^(f)	2012		2011^(f)(g)
Operating Segments	Canada		EMEA				US & APAC				Corporate^(b)		Eliminations		Consolidated

Gross Billings	311,082	321,253	160,804	^(c)	139,981	^(c)	66,388	^(c)	81,780	^(c)	-	-	(1,244)	(1,195)	537,030	^(c)	541,819	^(c)
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units	262,063	265,798	136,822		118,853		-		-		-	-	-	-	398,885		384,651
Revenue from Loyalty Units	259,694	253,315	101,922		91,835		-		-		-	-	-	-	361,616		345,150
Revenue from proprietary loyalty services	35,504	42,488	3,637		5,739		64,880		80,322		-	-	-	-	104,021		128,549
Other revenue	12,944	12,393	20,200		15,320		-		-		-	-	-	-	33,144		27,713
Intercompany revenue	-	414	49		198		1,195		583		-	-	(1,244)	(1,195)	-		-
Total revenue	308,142	308,610	125,808		113,092		66,075		80,905		-	-	(1,244)	(1,195)	498,781		501,412
Cost of rewards and direct costs	167,348	162,754	84,832		72,670		33,847		49,361		-	-	(49)	(1,052)	285,978		283,733
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization	140,794	145,856	40,976		40,422		32,228		31,544		-	-	(1,195)	(143)	212,803		217,679
Depreciation and amortization ^(a)	23,381	25,297	4,389		3,423		2,425		2,808		-	-	-	-	30,195		31,528
Gross margin	117,413	120,559	36,587		36,999		29,803		28,736		-	-	(1,195)	(143)	182,608		186,151
Operating expenses before share-based compensation	51,753	54,152	32,963		31,956		33,264		33,771		11,275	9,477	(1,195)	(143)	128,060		129,213
Share-based compensation	-	-	-		-		-		-		3,241	1,654	-	-	3,241		1,654
Total operating expenses	51,753	54,152	32,963		31,956		33,264		33,771		14,516	11,131	(1,195)	(143)	131,301		130,867
Operating income (loss)	65,660	66,407	3,624		5,043		(3,461)		(5,035)		(14,516)	(11,131)	-	-	51,307		55,284
Adjusted EBITDA ^(h)	91,655	99,562	17,188		17,140		(723)		(1,352)		(14,516)	(11,131)	-	-	93,604		104,219
Additions to non-current assets ^(d)	5,878	7,301	3,271		4,818		1,367		1,660		-	-	N/A	N/A	10,516		13,779
Non-current assets ^(d)	3,205,993	3,272,133	457,567	^(e)	469,715	^(e)	76,976	^(e)	106,229	^(e)	2,246	-	N/A	N/A	3,742,782	^(e)	3,848,077	^(e)
Deferred revenue	1,779,658	1,828,179	503,282		357,446		23,385		14,146		-	-	N/A	N/A	2,306,325		2,199,771
Total assets	3,767,255	3,789,354	947,136		941,639		206,173		202,279		65,623	64,708	N/A	N/A	4,986,187		4,997,980


(a)		Includes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.
(b)		Includes expenses that are not directly attributable to any specific operating segment. Corporate also includes the financial position and operating results of our operations in India, the investments in PLM, Prismah and Cardlytics.
(c)		Includes third party Gross Billings of $130.6 million in the UK and $39.0 million in the US for the three months ended September 30, 2012, compared to third party Gross Billings of $116.1 million in the UK and $43.9 million in the US for the three months ended September 30, 2011. Third party Gross Billings are attributed to a country on the basis of the country where the contractual and management responsibility for the customer resides.
(d)		Non-current assets includes amounts relating to goodwill, intangible assets and property and equipment.
(e)		Includes non-current assets of $407.6 million in the UK and $70.4 million in the US as of September 30, 2012, compared to non-current assets of $417.0 million in the UK and $100.0 million in the US as of September 30, 2011.
(f)		Intercompany revenue and expenses related to the comparative period have been reclassified to conform with the presentation adopted in the current period.
(g)		These figures do not include any effect attributable to the change in Breakage estimates made during the fourth quarter of 2011 in the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs.
(h)		A non-GAAP measurement.

Media
JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

/R E P E A T -- Media advisory - Aimia to present third quarter 2012 results/

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 09:30:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Oct. 22, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) will issue its third quarter 2012 financial results during the evening of Thursday, November 8, 2012 and hold a conference call and webcast on Friday, November 9, 2012 at 8:00 a.m. ET to discuss the results. Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive, and David Adams, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will be available to address analysts' questions. Media and interested participants may access this call on a listen-only basis. The details of the conference call are as follows:

Date:		Friday, November 9, 2012

Time:		8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET

By telephone:		1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450
		Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:		English - http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/891083/950093
		French - http://www.newswire.ca/fr/webcast/detail/891085/950097
		Note: this is a listen-only audio webcast. Media Player or Real Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:		An archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:		A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of November 8, 2012 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

Media:
JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706, joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Investor Relations:
Trish Moran
416-352-3728, trish.moran@aimia.com

Aimia appoints Eric Monteiro Executive Vice President, Global Strategy

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 09:00:00 -0500

MONTREAL, Nov. 8, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Rupert Duchesne, Aimia's Group Chief Executive is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Monteiro as Executive Vice President, Global Strategy. Monteiro will be responsible for leading Aimia's overall global strategy, new business development, key strategic initiatives, including identifying mergers and acquisitions targets as well as supporting new business development.

"Eric's extensive strategic expertise and international experience demonstrates our increased focus on driving international growth and maximizing shareholder value," said Duchesne. "Eric brings a strong track record of developing and implementing growth strategies that have improved shareholder value for companies across a wide range of industries. He will play a pivotal role in our strategic planning process as we focus on identifying moves that will accelerate our growth plans."

In this role, Monteiro will lead Aimia's Global Strategy group, partnering with regional business leaders to conceive and execute strategic and long-term plans that will drive growth for the company. He will also supervise the development of centres of excellence and strategic roadmaps that will drive Aimia's growth plans through product scaling and development of new loyalty concepts.

Monteiro brings more than 15 years of strategy experience, most recently as a partner at McKinsey & Company, where he co-led the Business Technology office in Canada and served a variety of international clients with an emphasis on financial services and telecom sectors. Eric began his career with the Arthur D. Little Company in São Paulo, Brazil working with Fortune 100 multinationals. He holds an M.B.A. with High Distinction from the University of Michigan Ross Business School and a B.Sc. in Automation Engineering from the University of São Paulo.

About Aimia

Edelman: Tom Sargent 1-416-849-8930 thomas.sargent@edelman.com
Aimia: JoAnne Hayes 1-416-352-3706 joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Aimia and Points.com Enter China with Co-Investment in Loyalty Start-up Partnered with One of the World's Largest Payment Card Issuers

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 06:00:00 -0500

Focused on the Long-Term Market Opportunity, Aimia and Points.com Make Minority Co-Investment in China Rewards, a New Loyalty Program Partnered with China Union Pay

TORONTO, Nov. 7, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) and Points International Ltd. (TSX: PTS; NASDAQ: PCOM), owner and operator of the loyalty commerce platform www.Points.com, have entered into a binding agreement to make a minority investment in China Rewards, a Shanghai based retail coalition loyalty program start-up. Under the terms of the agreement, Aimia and Points.com will each be investing up to US$5 million upon achievement of certain performance milestones and subject to regulatory approvals.

"Entering what is soon to be the world's largest economy has been a strategic growth imperative for Aimia," commented Rupert Duchesne, Aimia's Group Chief Executive, "As part of our stringent due diligence we have evaluated the key points of entry into China, seeking the right caliber of partner as well as a high return investment with minimal risk- China Rewards fit all of the criteria."

A key element of the China Rewards program is a long-term agreement with anchor partner, China Union Pay, one of the world's largest network operators.

Points' CEO Rob MacLean said "The Chinese loyalty industry is still in its early stages and we are excited to be involved in China Rewards. This strategic relationship will offer an immediate and credible presence and allow us to more quickly and efficiently establish our business in the important and rapidly growing Chinese market."

Mr. MacLean added "China Union Pay has unprecedented scale in the Chinese retail industry with a rapidly growing international reach. The ability to leverage this infrastructure and brand to quickly build a large, national loyalty program is a unique and remarkable opportunity."

China Rewards CEO, Cindy Wu has been doing business in China for more than 20 years and is a veteran of the retail loyalty industry. "We are very excited to be partnering with global leaders, Aimia and Points.com. Their experience in the loyalty space is a valuable and important part of China Rewards' growth plans," said Ms. Wu.

In connection with this transaction, CIBC acted as financial advisor.

About Aimia Inc.

About Points International Ltd.

Points International Ltd. (TSX:PTS) (Nasdaq:PCOM), is the owner and operator of Points.com, the global leader in reward currency management providing multiple eCommerce and technology solutions to the world's top loyalty brands. Points.com also manages the largest consumer rewards management platform, allowing more than 3 million users to trade, track, exchange, and redeem their loyalty points, miles, and rewards.

Recently, Points International was the recipient of several prestigious awards; the Company was named the 5th largest Canadian software company and the 40th largest Canadian technology company by the 2012 Branham300 list as well as ranked 40^th by PROFIT Magazine's top 200 Canadian companies by five-year revenue growth for 2012.

Points.com's solutions enable the management and monetization of loyalty currencies, including frequent flyer miles, hotel points, retailer rewards and credit card points, as well as enhancing loyalty program consumer offerings and back-end operations for more than 40 partners worldwide. Further, Points.com's SaaS products allow eCommerce merchants to add loyalty solutions to their online stores and reward customers for purchases.

For more information on Points.com, visit www.pointsinternational.com, follow us on Twitter (@pointsadvisor), fan us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/pointsfans or read our blog http://blog.points.com).

Note: Points International will be further discussing the China Rewards investment on their upcoming earnings call today at 5 PM ET. To participate in the conference call, investors from the U.S. and Canada should dial (877) 407-0789 ten minutes prior to the scheduled start time. International callers should dial (201) 689-8562.

For more information from Aimia, please contact:

Media
JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

For more information from Points International, please contact:

Laura Foster
Addo Communications
310-829-5400
lauraf@addocommunications.com

OR

Kimberly Esterkin
Addo Communications
310-829-5400
kimberlye@addocommunications.com

Jo Longhurst Wins The Grange Prize 2012

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 20:40:00 -0400

Public vote awards U.K. artist $50,000 prize for contemporary photography

(TORONTO/MONTREAL – Nov. 1, 2012) The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) and Aeroplan, an Aimia company, are pleased to announce that the public has chosen British photographer Jo Longhurst as the winner of The Grange Prize 2012.

Longhurst was selected over fellow contenders Emmanuelle Léonard (Montreal), Annie MacDonell (Toronto) and Jason Evans (U.K.). Voting began 10 weeks ago online at www.thegrangeprize.com. Members of the public have also had the opportunity to vote in person at Canada House in the U.K. and at the AGO, where exhibitions of the nominees’ work are on display until Jan. 6, 2013. The Grange Prize is Canada’s largest photography prize and the only major Canadian art prize determined by public vote.

Born in Essex, U.K., Longhurst has gained international recognition for her photographic work, having exhibited in London, Paris and Berlin, as well as at this year’s Documenta (13). A PhD graduate from the Royal College of Art, Longhurst's two primary bodies of work investigate the ways we strive for perfection and the role photographs play in upholding these ideals, be they in breeding whippet show dogs in The Refusal (2003-2008) or performing classic poses in elite gymnastics in Other Spaces (2008-2012).

Longhurst receives the $50,000 cash prize, while the three other finalists each receive a cash honorarium of $5,000 dedicated to the research, creation and production of new work. All four finalists will receive an artist residency, one of the unique features of The Grange Prize. Longhurst begins her residency at the AGO on Nov. 4, 2012, and will occupy the Anne Lind Artist-in-Residence Studio inside the Weston Family Learning Centre until Dec. 15, 2012. Jason Evans will be in residence at the AGO in spring 2013, and Emmanuelle Léonard and Annie MacDonell will travel to the U.K. to conduct research and explore new avenues of practice next year.

“The Grange Prize is unique amongst international art prizes,” says Matthew Teitelbaum, director and CEO of the AGO. “In partnership with Aeroplan, we have built something truly innovative in its accessibility and support, and we are thrilled to see the response from the public, who are voting by the thousands and sharing their love of art with us. I offer my sincere congratulations to Ms. Longhurst and to all of the shortlisted artists.”

“There is an incredible amount of talent amongst this year’s shortlisted artists and we are pleased to showcase their inspiring work,” said Vince Timpano, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canada, Aimia. “Together with the AGO, we are committed to raising awareness of contemporary photography and the artists who create it here in Canada and around the world.”

Previous winners of The Grange Prize include Gauri Gill of India (2011), Canadian photographer Kristan Horton (2010), Marco Antonio Cruz of Mexico (2009) and Canadian photographer Sarah Anne Johnson (2008).

Blog posts and more information about The Grange Prize can be found at www.thegrangeprize.com.

The Grange Prize is generously supported by The Canada Council for the Arts.

ABOUT AEROPLAN
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management. Aeroplan is a long-standing patron of the arts, with a history of supporting artists and arts initiatives across Canada. Of particular significance is the company’s work, in partnership with the Art Gallery of Ontario, to develop The Grange Prize for contemporary photography. Aeroplan is committed to fostering a long-term, international dialogue about this important art form. Aeroplan has also joined the AGO in a partnership as the Signature Partner of the Photography Collection Program, supporting planned AGO activities to engage visitors with photography, including special lectures and tours.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aimia.com or www.aeroplan.com.

ABOUT THE AGO
With a collection of more than 80,000 works of art, the Art Gallery of Ontario is among the most distinguished art museums in North America. From the vast body of Group of Seven and signature Canadian works to the African art gallery, from the cutting-edge contemporary art to Peter Paul Rubens’ masterpiece The Massacre of The Innocents, the AGO offers an incredible art experience with each visit. In 2002 Kenneth Thomson’s generous gift of 2,000 remarkable works of Canadian and European art inspired Transformation AGO, an innovative architectural expansion by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry that in 2008 resulted in one of the most critically acclaimed architectural achievements in North America. Highlights include Galleria Italia, a gleaming showcase of wood and glass running the length of an entire city block, and the often-photographed spiral staircase, beckoning visitors to explore. The AGO has an active membership program offering great value, and the AGO’s Weston Family Learning Centre offers engaging art and creative programs for children, families, youth and adults. Visit ago.net to find out more about upcoming special exhibitions, to learn about eating and shopping at the AGO, to register for programs and to buy tickets or memberships.

Oct. 20, 2012–Jan. 20, 2013: Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics and Painting

March 16–June 16, 2013: Revealing the Renaissance: Art in Early Florence

The AGO acknowledges the generous support of its Signature Partners: American Express, Signature Partner of the Conservation Program; and Aeroplan, Signature Partner of the Photography Collection Program.

The Art Gallery of Ontario is funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Additional operating support is received from the City of Toronto, the Canada Council for the Arts and generous contributions from AGO members, donors and private-sector partners.

Media Contacts:

Melissa Prince
Veritas Communications
(416) 482-2669
prince@veritascanada.com

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
(416) 352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

Andrea-Jo Wilson
Art Gallery of Ontario
(416) 979-6660 ext. 403
andrea-jo_wilson@ago.net

Aeroplan Adds Sparkle to the Program with New Birks Partnership

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 09:30:00 -0400

Montreal, QC, November 1, 2012 – Aeroplan today announced it has entered into a multi-year agreement with Birks, Canada's premier prestige jewellery brand and most respected designer, manufacturer and retailer of fine jewellery, timepieces and gifts. This agreement will enable Aeroplan Members to earn Aeroplan Miles in an additional retail category at more than 30 stores across Canada as well as through online shopping at www.birks.com. In addition, members can also earn miles through Birks Gold Exchange at www.birksgoldexchange.com.

Established in 1879, Birks offers a selection of prestige jewellery and timepiece collections. Packaged in the iconic blue box, presents from Birks are sure to always delight. Starting today, members will be able to earn the following:

1 mile for every $1 spent on all products in 30+ stores and online at www.birks.com
2 miles for every $1 of platinum, gold and silver sold online at birksgoldexchange.com

“The partnership with Birks is a natural fit for the Aeroplan program as our members are some of Canada’s most discerning shoppers,” said Kevin O’Brien, Chief Commercial Officer, Aeroplan. “Adding a partner like Birks helps Aeroplan focus on expanding our accumulation opportunities in the premium retail category and responds to our members’ desire for upscale, high quality brands while linking to our exclusive ‘Welcome to the Club’ mission.”

“We are thrilled to be joining the Aeroplan program, Canada’s leading loyalty program,” said Jean-Christophe Bédos, President and CEO of Birks & Mayors Inc. “Birks is known for its unparalleled customer service, and it is with much pride that we are now able to offer even more value to our clients around the country,” he concluded.

In addition, Birks will exclusively fulfill the fine jewellery offering in Aeroplan’s redemption portfolio on aeroplan.com where members can continue to use their miles for Birks products. Aeroplan will carry a wide selection of prestige items. For details on these rewards, please visit www.aeroplan.com/myrewards.

To celebrate the launch of the partnership, Aeroplan Members can earn 1,000 bonus miles on their purchase in store or online the first time they present their Aeroplan Card until December 31, 2012. In addition, members will earn 1 mile for every $1 spent on all products in-store and online at www.birks.com.

For more information, please visit: www.aeroplan.com.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

About Birks
Birks & Mayors is a leading retailer with 58 luxury jewellery stores in Canada and the United States. The Company operates 31 stores under the Birks brand in most major markets in Canada and 24 stores under the Mayors brand in Florida and Georgia, two retail locations in Calgary and Vancouver under the Brinkhaus brand, and one retail location in Orlando under the Rolex brand. Birks was founded in 1879 and developed over the years into Canada's premier retailer, designer and manufacturer of fine jewellery, timepieces, silverware and gifts. Visit www.birks.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com

Eva Hartling
Director, Public Relations & Events,
Birks & Mayors Inc.
514-823-7022
ehartling@birksandmayors.com

Aimia and Grupo Aeromexico announce agreement in principle

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 08:42:00 -0400

Aimia to acquire from Grupo Aeromexico an additional 20% equity participation in Premier Loyalty & Marketing, owner and operator of Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program

MONTREAL and MEXICO CITY, Oct. 29, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - (TSX: AIM) (BMV: AEROMEX.MEX)

Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") and Grupo Aeromexico ("Grupo Aeromexico" or "Aeromexico"), S.A.B. de C.V. are pleased to report that they have reached an agreement in principle in connection with the acquisition by Aimia of an additional 20% equity participation in Premier Loyalty & Marketing, S.A.P.I. de C.V. ("PLM"), owner and operator of Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program.

PLM's fair value has been established at US$518 million and Aimia will pay US$88 million, which includes a discount agreed to at the time of Aimia's initial investment in PLM in September of 2010. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the execution of definitive agreements and Mexican regulatory approvals, and is expected to close before the end of 2012.

After closing, Aimia's and Grupo Aeromexico's equity participations in PLM will approximate 49% and 51%, respectively.

Aimia and Grupo Aeromexico will continue their close collaboration and support of PLM's management team in the execution of their strategy to enable PLM to achieve its full potential as Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program.

"PLM's exceptional performance is the result of a strong partnership at the shareholder level and flawless execution by its very talented management team," said Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive of Aimia. "We are thrilled with PLM's progress over the last two years. This provides clear evidence of the strength and portability of the Aeroplan-derived business model. The success of this partnership confirms our strategic vision in entering this important market and choosing the right partner in Grupo Aeromexico, the undisputed leading Mexican carrier." added Duchesne.

Andrés Conesa, Chief Executive Officer of Grupo Aeromexico added: "This transaction reflects Aimia's confidence, not only in PLM and in Grupo Aeromexico's future, but also in the favourable outlook for the Mexican economy and Mexico's consumer sector, which will fuel our future growth. By partnering with clear industry leaders, we have been able to create and unlock significant value for our shareholders."

RBC Capital Markets acted as advisor to Aimia in the transaction, while Citibank advised Grupo Aeromexico.

About Aimia

About Premier Loyalty & Marketing, S.A.P.I. de C.V.

About Grupo Aeromexico

Grupo Aeromexico operates its main hub out of Terminal 2 in the Mexico City International Airport, and offers over 550 daily flights to different cities in Mexico, the United States, Canada, Central and South America, Europe and Asia.

Aeromexico is a founding member of SkyTeam, the global airline alliance partnering 18 airlines: Aeroflot, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Air Europa, Air France, Alitalia, China Airlines, China Eastern, China Southern, CSA Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air, Middle East Airlines, Saudia, TAROM Romanian Air Transport and Vietnam Airlines. SkyTeam offers all partner airline passengers a large global network with more destinations and frequencies, and improved connectivity. Passengers can earn and redeem miles through the different airline partners' loyalty programs and enjoy the benefits offered at SkyTeam's 520 VIP airport lounges around the world. SkyTeam offers its 537 million annual passengers more than 14.900 daily flights to 993 destinations in 186 countries www.skyteam.com.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Aimia

Media
JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706
joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Analysts & Investors
Trish Moran
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Grupo Aeromexico

Media
Carlos Torres
52 (55) 9132 4128
ctorres@aeromexico.com.mx

Analysts & Investors
Carlos Doormann
52 (55) 9132 4257
investor.relations@aeromexico.com.mx

Aimia Recognized for Incorporating Corporate Social Responsibility and Employee Engagement

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 10:00:00 -0400

Company Receives 2012 SITE Crystal Award for Responsible Experience – Most Impactful Effort Toward CSR As Part Of An Incentive Program

Minneapolis, MN (October 25, 2012) – Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management, was honored with a Site Crystal Award for Responsible Experience – Most Impactful Effort Toward CSR as Part of an Incentive Program at the Crystal Awards Ceremony during the Site International Conference in Beijing, China on September 15, 2012. As part of a larger incentive travel program to Hawaii, Aimia designed a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative for its client that added a unique experiential element to Oracle’s Oracle Club Excellence award trip and will serve to inspire and incentivize employees for the future.

“We are thrilled to receive the prestigious Site Crystal Award for our work with Oracle,” said Fay Beauchine, President, Business Loyalty, Aimia. “As a leader in the industry, it’s our mission to create programs that not only provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the participants, but also help strengthen the relationship between companies and their employees. We were able to do this with Oracle by engaging attendees in a CSR activity that was extraordinary and enjoyable yet contributed to a cause important to the community.”

Aimia’s “Shark Encounter” experience partnered Oracle employees with the University of Miami RJ Dunlap Marine Conservation Program. The Aimia experience allowed participants to become shark researchers for the day - collecting data to be used for shark conservation efforts. The program delivered the dual benefit of educating employees about sharks as well as strengthening employee engagement. As a result, the program not only generated data on the migratory routes and residency patterns of sharks, but also encouraged attendees to face and overcome a common fear – a skill that translates to the business world.

About Aimia
Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a U.S.-based private company operating in merchant-funded transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking. Aimia is a Canadian public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM) and has over 3,400 employees in more than 20 countries around the world. For more information about Aimia, please visit www.aimia.com.

About the Crystal Awards
In 1980, Site created the Crystal Awards Recognition Program as a way to honor top professionals who deliver programs that connect motivational experiences to solid business results. Today, the Crystal Award serves as a benchmark for industry programs and is regarded as the highest honor in the industry.

Incentive campaigns and special/motivational events of promotion campaigns held between 1 May 2011 and 1 May 2012 were eligible. Entries were evaluated by an independent panel of judges in the areas of return on investment, creativity and mechanics.

The Crystal Award Program is sponsored by IMEX, a worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings and events.

Contact: Lee Lubarsky
Phone: (212) 642-7759
E-mail: Lee.Lubarsky@edelman.com

Media advisory - Aimia to present third quarter 2012 results

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 09:30:00 -0400

Date:		Friday, November 9, 2012

Time:		8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET

By telephone:		1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450
		Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:		English - http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/891083/950093
		French - http://www.newswire.ca/fr/webcast/detail/891085/950097
		Note: this is a listen-only audio webcast. Media Player or Real Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:		An archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:		A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of November 8, 2012 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

Media:
JoAnne Hayes
416-352-3706, joanne.hayes@aimia.com

Investor Relations:
Trish Moran
416-352-3728, trish.moran@aimia.com

Aeroplan and Imperial Oil Renew Agreement

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 09:30:00 -0400

Members can continue to Earn Miles at Esso stations

Montreal, QC, October 17, 2012 –Aeroplan today announced the renewal of a multi-year agreement with Imperial Oil that will enable Aeroplan Members to continue earning Aeroplan Miles on the purchase of gas, car washes and convenience store items at more than 1,800 participating Esso-branded stations across Canada.

In addition, members can also redeem their miles on aeroplan.com for a $50 or $100 Esso Gift Card that can be used at any Esso retail location. Visit www.aeroplan.com/myrewards and click on ‘Use your Miles’ and ‘Activities and Merchandise’ for more details.

“We’ve enjoyed working with Imperial Oil for eight years now, providing our members with an opportunity to earn miles at the pump at Esso stations from coast to coast,” said David Houston, Vice President, Partnerships, Aeroplan. “By extending our alliance, we have the opportunity to grow our relationship to new heights, drive further engagement with the Esso brand and the Aeroplan program through exciting promotional offers.”

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For more information or to check out special promotions throughout the year, please visit: www.aeroplan.com.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com

Public & Government Affairs
Imperial Oil
(403) 237-2710

Aeroplan and Direct Energy Re-energize Partnership with Expanded Program and Bonus Miles for Members

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 09:30:00 -0400

Companies Donate 1 Million Aeroplan Miles to the Canadian Red Cross for their Water Safety Program

Montreal, QC, October 16 2012 –Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program and Direct Energy, one of North America’s largest energy and energy-related services providers, today announced that they have renewed their partnership, with new exciting offers. Aeroplan Members in Ontario can accumulate Aeroplan Miles with Direct Energy for protection plans, HVAC, duct cleaning and other services. Members in Ontario can earn anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 Aeroplan Miles depending on the service enlisted through Direct Energy or up to 10,000 miles when they sign up for multiple products and services from Direct Energy. Members in Alberta can earn 2,000 miles for Electricity and 2,000 miles for Natural Gas when they switch to Direct Energy as their provider. To kick-off the launch of the renewed partnership, Direct Energy will be offering a double miles bonus on all products and services and up to 75,000 miles for new HVAC installations through the end of the year.

“We launched our partnership with Direct Energy in 2009 and we’re excited to expand our relationship with Direct Energy to include additional services such as HVAC sales, duct cleaning, water heaters and more for our members in Ontario,” said David Houston, Vice President, Partnerships, Aeroplan. “We look forward to working with Direct Energy to continue to develop the program.”

Mileage earning opportunities in Alberta:

Service from Direct Energy	Regular Base Miles offer:	Miles offer + Bonus through December 31, 2012
Electricity	2,000 miles	4,000 miles
Natural Gas	2,000 miles	4,000 miles

Mileage earning opportunities in Ontario:

Service from Direct Energy	Regular Base Miles offer:	Miles offer + Bonus through December 31, 2012
Protection Plans	1,500 miles	3,000 miles
Chargeable services such as: Repairs and maintenance	2,000 miles	4,000 miles
Duct Cleaning	1,500 miles	3,000 miles
HVAC	37,500* miles (until December 31, 2012) *5,000 miles as of January 1, 2013	Up to 75,000 miles N/A

Also, to celebrate the renewal of the partnership, Aeroplan and Direct Energy are each donating 500,000 Aeroplan Miles to The Canadian Red Cross Swim Program. 2012 has seen a raised concern for water safety in part due to an unusually hot summer. Related energy requirements for heating and cooling, as well as for community pools, make this an appropriate focus for this partnership. The Red Cross Swim program teaches 1.2 million Canadians how to swim each year and trains approximately 17,000 youth to be swim instructors. The Aeroplan Miles donated to the swim program will enable the Canadian Red Cross to bring together their trainers and master instructor to build their skills as the facilitators of the program as well as help bring together other volunteers in the Swim Program to better support the communities who offer the program across Canada.

“Direct Energy is excited to announce our continued partnership with Aeroplan and the expansion of the program to include additional products and services that now qualify for Aeroplan miles for new customers,” said Peter Greene, Senior Director, Head of Partnerships for Direct Energy. “We’re also very proud to partner with Aeroplan to donate a total of one million Aeroplan miles to the Canadian Red Cross Swim Program, as part of Direct Energy’s In the community initiative that supports communities and organizations across North America.”

For more information or to sign up to receive Direct Energy’s services, please visit: www.directenergy.com/aeroplan.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

About Direct Energy
Direct Energy is North America's largest provider of heating & cooling, plumbing and electrical services and a leading energy and energy-related services provider with over six million residential and commercial customer relationships. Direct Energy provides customers with choice and support in managing their energy costs through a portfolio of innovative products and services. A subsidiary of Centrica plc (LSE: CNA), one of the world's leading integrated energy companies, Direct Energy operates in 46 U.S. states plus the District of Columbia and 10 provinces in Canada. To learn more about Direct Energy, please visit www.directenergy.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com

Jeff Lanthier
Direct Energy
905-943-6260
Jeff.lanthier@directenergy.com

Showroomers are a retailer's secret weapon according to research from Aimia

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 10:20:00 -0400

MONTREAL, Sept. 25, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Showroomers exhibit more loyal behaviour than non-showroomers, making them an ideal target for retailers, according to a study from Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management. Retail showrooming behaviour, whereby consumers browse for items in-store before using their smart phones to find a lower price online, is propelled by Millennials (age 19-29) with at least two-thirds of showroomers coming from that generation. However, according to Aimia's "Through the Looking Glass" retail brief released today, showroomers are also active participants in loyalty and reward programs, thus making them an undervalued consumer audience for retailers.

"Showroomers are more likely to participate in loyalty programs, are more willing to trade personal details for rewards, and are more interested in mobile commerce," said Rick Ferguson , Vice President, Knowledge Development, Aimia. "Retailers should take advantage of these behaviours to transform showroomers to become loyal - and paying - customers."

Retailers have an opportunity to harness showroomers' greater willingness to engage in reward program memberships. Aimia's research shows the typical Canadian showroomer is male, owns at least two digital devices, is highly active in social media, and is excited by mobile commerce. The research also found Canadian showroomers are:

17% more likely than a non-showroomer to participate in a retail reward program membership
35% more likely to participate in a financial services reward program membership
88% more likely to participate in a travel reward program membership
10 times more likely than non-showroomers to respond to a location-based mobile offer

View the research on American showroomers.

"The solution to embracing showrooming behaviour lies in retailers leveraging their shopping data to get consumer insights that will help shape their marketing strategies and drive in-store purchases," said Mr. Ferguson. "The tools of loyalty management provide unparalleled insight that can help retailers reinvent retail and build stronger relationships with consumers."

Retailers can influence showroomers by leveraging the tools of loyalty management including:

Using hard benefits to reward desired behaviour - offer in-the-midst showroomers to join your rewards program with a rich bonus offer on their first purchase
Linking soft benefits to upper-tier smart phone users - identify showroomers within the upper tier of your most valuable customers, and lavish them with soft benefits such as exclusive access, special benefits, experiential rewards, location-based offers and other privileges that resonate with your target audience
Steal the online thunder - offer a showrooming app through your own loyalty program, allowing you to hold on to customer insights
Deploying an aggressive partner strategy - work with and share opt-in data with partners and suppliers to combat showrooming together

Aimia's "Through the Looking Glass" retail brief provides a glimpse of the future of retail - one that embraces showroomers, leverages customer data to build loyalty, and uses the tools of recognition and reward to change behaviour. To download the complete retail brief and related infographic, please visit: http://www.aimia.com/English/Knowledge/Research-Center/default.aspx.

About The Retail Brief

Aimia's "Through the Looking Glass" retail brief was based on data previously collected for the Millennial Loyalty Survey conducted by Harris Interactive from 2,045 adults ages 19 and older in Canada between July 8 and July 19, 2011. Figures were weighted to be representative of the general population. Figures for the United Kingdom and United States markets are also available within the retail brief.

About Aimia

Aimia announces closing of acquisition of Excellence In Motivation, Inc.

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 16:46:00 -0400

MONTREAL, Sept. 24, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM) is pleased to announce the successful closing of the acquisition, which was previously announced on August 28, 2012, of Excellence In Motivation, Inc. (EIM), a privately-owned U.S.-based full-service performance improvement and business loyalty solutions provider, for approximately US $28 million.

The acquisition further advances Aimia's position as a leading full suite loyalty management company delivering world-class channel, employee and customer solutions across all vertical industries, geographies and channels for consumer and business-to-business brands.

About Aimia

Aimia holds fourth annual investor day

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 14:00:00 -0400

Announced Several Growth Initiatives as well as New Commercial Partnerships in UK and Canada

MONTREAL, Sept. 20, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - (TSX: AIM) Aimia held its fourth annual investor day at Corus Quay in Toronto today to showcase its global operations.

"In the 10 short years since we became a separate entity, Aimia has turned into a significantly cash generative, multi-national company with a robust growth platform," stated Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive. "We have grown from a single Canadian entity into an investment grade global enterprise with operations in more than 20 countries. With our full suite of services we are leaders in the global loyalty industry. We are following the roadmap that we set out in the early years and are making investments that we expect will generate high returns for our shareholders for years to come."

During the event, which was attended by more than 100 people, Aimia confirmed its consolidated guidance for 2012 and disclosed the following:

A new major partner for Nectar UK - eBay
The creation of a new joint venture between Aimia's Intelligent Shopper Solutions business and Sainsbury's
Several partner renewals and a new partner signing in Canada
The step-up of an investment in an Indonesian loyalty company

Nectar UK and eBay Announce Major New Partnership

Nectar, the UK's most popular loyalty program, and eBay, the UK's largest online marketplace, have today announced a major new strategic partnership which will enable Nectar card holders to collect points automatically when they shop on eBay. The announcement coincides with the celebration of the Nectar program's tenth birthday.

The move will benefit millions of consumers by combining the spending power of Nectar's 18.5 million members and eBay UK's 17 million unique monthly visitors. It is a significant extension of the affiliate relationship that eBay previously had in place with Nectar eShops where shoppers earned points if they clicked through nectar.com. Now, eBay shoppers will be able to collect points on successful bids and 'buy it now' transactions once they have undertaken one simple step to link their eBay account and their Nectar card. eBay's largest categories for UK shoppers are fashion, home and garden, electronics and motor parts and accessories, with 65% of goods traded on the marketplace globally now bought new or at a fixed price.

The partnership marks a significant step in extending the proportion of household items on which Nectar points can be earned. Currently points can be earned on 50 per cent of household spend - including groceries, DIY, holiday bookings, household bills and petrol. The addition of eBay as Nectar's strategic online retail partner is a significant step towards increasing the level of household spending that is eligible to earn Nectar points.

Jan-Pieter Lips, Managing Director of Nectar, said: "This partnership will have similar reach to those we have in place with other household names such as British Gas, BP and Homebase which have enabled millions of people to collect Nectar points and get 'something for nothing' on their daily household spend. eBay is one of the most popular online shopping sites in the UK and Nectar has a fantastically engaged, savvy community of collectors so the two brands are a natural fit. It's testament to the strength of our proposition that eBay has chosen to partner with us and it marks a clear strategic development and a commitment to digital for Nectar as a business, as well as an appropriate way of celebrating our tenth birthday."

Consumers will be able to collect Nectar points directly from eBay.co.uk site from mid October. To celebrate the launch, eBay will be running a number of promotions in key categories over the Christmas shopping period.

Aimia and Sainsbury's Form Joint Venture to Provide Comprehensive B2B Marketing Solutions

Aimia and Sainsbury's today announced they have formed Insight 2 Communication (I²C), a joint venture company, which will offer suppliers more comprehensive multi-channel marketing solutions in and around Sainsbury's stores and online.

I²C will provide Sainsbury's suppliers with a 'one-stop shop' solution by rolling out both targeted and non-targeted advertising campaigns across all of Sainsbury's communication channels. Through a series of licensing and supply agreements with Aimia and Sainsbury, the joint venture will combine people, intellectual property and tools, including Self Serve and Sainsbury's fast-growing in-house non-targeted communications business. The licensing and supply agreements will be for an initial term of 6 years.

Aimia retains sole ownership of its proprietary data analytical tools, including Self Serve. The international operations of Aimia's Intelligent Shopper Solutions (ISS) will not be affected by the creation of the joint venture.

The joint venture board will have equal representation from Sainsbury's and Aimia, whilst the day to day senior management team has been created by bringing together the best talent from both Aimia and Sainsbury's.

Aside from a small initial working capital requirement, the joint venture will be self sufficient from a cash perspective and is expected to fully distribute its retained earnings to its shareholders on a regular basis.

The joint venture will give Aimia access to additional revenues, however, due to the timing of the transaction and the terms of the arrangement, there will be no material impact to Aimia's consolidated financial statements in 2012. For 2013 reporting, Aimia will evaluate the accounting of this arrangement in compliance with the new standard, IFRS 11, Joint Arrangements. Aimia will account for this entity either as a joint operation which would mean accounting for its proportionate share of the revenues, expenses, assets and obligations of the entity or it will account for the entity as a joint venture under the equity accounting method.

Multiple Partner Renewals and a New Partner Signing in Canada

Aeroplan announced expanded, multi-year relationships with Imperial Oil (Esso) and Direct Energy. Aeroplan has renewed contracts with Home Hardware Primus and Rexall.

As previously announced, Aeroplan expanded its coalition through a multi-year partnership with Bentley, Canada's largest specialty retailer of luggage, handbags and backpacks with more than 300 stores across Canada.

In addition, Aeroplan is building out its promotional business. Until October 31, 2012, Aeroplan Members are able to earn 60,000 Aeroplan Miles when they purchase or lease a new Infiniti FX, QX or M^®qualifying vehicle through a Canadian Infiniti dealer. Also, Aeroplan is partnering with premium appliance company, Miele, on a range of new products coming to market in the coming months.

Aimia's proprietary business in Canada announced the name of its newest client, Husky Energy, one of Canada's largest integrated energy companies.

Aimia Makes Small Strategic Investment to Take Full Ownership Stake in Loyalty Company in Indonesia, a Key Asian Market

Aimia also announced that it has completed a $2 million investment in Indonesia to increase its ownership in a company called Interact from 40 per cent up to 100 per cent. Interact is the leader in Indonesia's rapidly emerging loyalty sector with a solid portfolio of blue chip clients, including Nestle and Mazda. Indonesia is one of Asia's fastest growing economies and is the world's fourth most populated country with a population of close to 240 million people.

2012 Outlook - Consolidated Guidance Confirmed

While it is likely that the higher than forecasted Gross Billings growth rate experienced in the first half of the year in the EMEA region will slow in the second half, EMEA is on track for a strong year and is compensating for some top line softness in the Canada and US & APAC business segments. As a result, we are reiterating our 2012 annual consolidated guidance provided in the February 22, 2012 earnings press release, although we are modifying our targets for each of our three business segments.

For the year ending December 31, 2012, Aimia expects to report the following:

Key Financial Metric	Target Range (as provided on February 22, 2012)	Target Range (updated on September 20, 2012)
Consolidated Outlook
Gross Billings Growth¹	Between 3% and 5%	Lower end of range
Adjusted EBITDA²	Between $370 and $380 million	Upper end of range
Free Cash Flow^2,3	Between $220 million and $240 million	No change
Capital Expenditures	To approximate $55 million	No change
Income Taxes	Current income tax rate is anticipated to approximate 27% in Canada and 17% in Italy. The Corporation expects no significant cash income taxes will be incurred in the rest of its foreign operations.	No change
Business Segment Gross Billings Growth Outlook
Canada	Between 2% and 4%	Between 1.0% and 2.0%
EMEA	Between 8% and 11%	Between 11% and 13%
US & APAC¹	Between -2% and 2%	Between -9% and -7%
Other
Nectar Italia	Greater than €60 million in Gross Billings	No change

Notes:

The Gross Billings growth guidance excludes the effect of a client loss (Qantas) in APAC at the end of the first quarter of 2012. The target growth ranges are based on 2011 reported Gross Billings, excluding $40 million related to Qantas. The client loss will have a negligible impact on Adjusted EBITDA.
The Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow outlook range includes an assumption of planned incremental operating expenses in business development activities, principally in the U.S., India and Brazil, technology platform related expenditures that are operating in nature and additional brand related expenses associated with our new branding, which in total will approximate $20 million in 2012.
Free Cash Flow before dividends.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Such statements may involve but are not limited to comments with respect to strategies, expectations, planned operations, future actions, anticipated financial performance and business prospects. Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are based on assumptions and are subject to important risks and uncertainties. Any forecasts or forward-looking predictions or statements cannot be relied upon due to, amongst other things, changing external events and general uncertainties of the business and its corporate structure. Results indicated in forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results for a number of reasons, including without limitation, dependency on top accumulation partners and clients, conflicts of interest, greater than expected redemptions for rewards, regulatory matters, retail market/economic conditions, industry competition, Air Canada liquidity issues, Air Canada or travel industry disruptions, airline industry changes and increased airline costs, supply and capacity costs, unfunded future redemption costs, failure to safeguard databases and consumer privacy, changes to coalition loyalty programs, seasonal nature of the business, other factors and prior performance, foreign operations, legal proceedings, reliance on key personnel, labour relations, pension liability, technological disruptions and inability to use third party software, failure to protect intellectual property rights, interest rate and currency fluctuations, leverage and restrictive covenants in current and future indebtedness, uncertainty of dividend payments, managing growth, credit ratings, as well as the other factors identified in this news release and throughout Aimia's public disclosure record on file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities.. Material factors and assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a projection or forecast are also set out throughout this document. We believe that the expectations represented by our forward-looking statements are reasonable, yet there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The purpose of the forward-looking statements is to provide the reader with a description of management's expectations regarding the matters described in this news release and may not be appropriate for other purposes. The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Aimia's expectations as of September 20, 2012, and are subject to change after such date. However, Aimia disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

About Aimia

Nectar and eBay Announce Major New Partnership

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 04:30:00 -0400

Deal will mean half of all UK internet shoppers can earn Nectar points on eBay

Nectar, the UK’s most popular loyalty programme, and eBay, the UK’s largest online marketplace, have today announced a major new strategic partnership which will enable Nectar card holders to collect points automatically when they shop on eBay. The announcement coincides with the celebration of the Nectar programme’s tenth birthday.

The move will benefit millions of consumers by combining the spending power of Nectar’s 18.5 million collectors and eBay UK’s 17 million unique monthly visitors. It is a significant extension of the affiliate relationship that eBay previously had in place with Nectar eShops where shoppers earned points if they clicked through nectar.com. Now, eBay shoppers will be able to collect points on successful bids and ‘buy it now’ transactions once they have undertaken one simple step to link their eBay account and their Nectar card. eBay’s largest categories for UK shoppers are fashion, home and garden and electronics, with 65% of goods traded on the marketplace globally now bought new or at a fixed price.

eBay.co.uk shoppers who are not currently Nectar card holders will be able to apply for a card via the eBay website. Transactions must be made via PayPal in order to be eligible for points. Once accounts have been linked, Nectar collectors will be able to collect points on a huge range of products from the 60 million live listings on the UK site – from clothes and accessories, to furniture and electronics.

The partnership marks a significant step in extending the proportion of household items on which Nectar points can be earned. Currently points can be earned on 50% of household spend – including groceries, DIY, holiday bookings, household bills and petrol. The addition of eBay as Nectar’s strategic online retail partner is a significant step in increasing the level of household spend eligible to earn Nectar points.

Jan-Pieter Lips, Managing Director of Nectar, said:

“This partnership will have similar reach to those we have in place with other household names such as British Gas, BP and Homebase which have enabled millions of people to collect Nectar points and get ‘something for nothing’ on their daily household spend.

“eBay is one of the most popular online shopping sites in the UK and Nectar has a fantastically engaged, savvy community of collectors so the two brands are a natural fit. It’s testament to the strength of our proposition that eBay has chosen to partner with us and it marks a clear strategic development and a commitment to digital for Nectar as a business, as well as an appropriate way of celebrating our tenth birthday.”

Alex Von Schirmeister, Vice President of Marketing for eBay in Europe, said:

“Half of all UK online shoppers visit eBay each month and this new partnership will allow us to reward their loyalty and keep them coming back to the site even more often. As we all start planning for Christmas, UK shoppers will remain value conscious. eBay has the advantage of offering customers a selection of new items from our 100 high street partners including big names in fashion and home and garden, making it easy to browse, compare prices and find that ideal gift or purchase.

“By investing in the Nectar programme and promotions planned for later in the year, all of our 190,000 eBay UK business sellers will benefit from a potential boost to their sales in the important Christmas trading period.”

Consumers will be able to collect Nectar points directly from eBay.co.uk site in October. To celebrate the launch, eBay will be running a number of promotions in key categories over the Christmas shopping period.

The eBay announcement follows the recent launches of two other new Nectar reward partnerships with Oxfam Unwrapped and Tragus Group, operator of Café Rouge, Bella Italia and Strada.

For further information, contact:

Nectar
Ania Krwawicz
t: 0207 152 6869
e: Ania.Krwawicz@aimia.com

Emma Dennis, Fishburn Hedges
t: 020 7839 4321
e: emma.dennis@fishburn-hedges.co.uk

eBay UK
Clare Moore-Bridger
e: cmoorebridger@ebay.com
t: 07827 242 941

Jeremy Page, Blue Rubicon
t: 020 7260 2700
e: Jeremy.page@bluerubcin.com

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

In 2012, Nectar is celebrating 10 years of rewarding British shoppers and has given back almost £2 billion of rewards to collectors, including money off shopping, travel, days out and cinema tickets.

Over 18.5 million collectors earn Nectar points when shopping for groceries, doing DIY, booking a holiday, paying household bills, buying petrol and even getting their car serviced. Collectors also earn Nectar points every time they shop online via nectar.com at over 500 leading online retailers.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com.

About eBay

Founded in 1999, eBay.co.uk is the UK’s largest online shopping destination, providing a platform for over 17m unique visitors per month to buy and sell new, unique and used items in a fun and easy way.
eBay has around 60 million live listings on the UK site, with fixed price goods accounting for the majority (65%) of items sold globally.
Sellers of all sizes, including 190,000 registered businesses and over 100 well-known brands and retailers use eBay.co.uk to reach the UK’s largest online shopping audience that receives around as many visitors per month as London’s Oxford Street.
Over 4.5 million shoppers regularly look for Clothing, Shoes and Accessories on eBay.co.uk. Transaction volume on eBay Fashion grew 30% YoY over 2010, outstripping the market.
Globally in 2011, eBay transacted $5billion through mobile devices, an overall increase of 150% from 2010. eBay is predicting $10 billion of transactions taking place via a mobile device in 2012, revised upwards from $8 billion.
In the UK an item is purchased every second on eBay via a mobile device.
eBay.co.uk is owned by eBay Inc, which has expanded to include a range of brands that help consumers find and purchase the goods they want. These brands include eBay, PayPal, Shopping.com, RedLaser, Milo and others.

Sainsbury's and Aimia set up joint venture to provide integrated marketing solutions

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 04:30:00 -0400

MONTREAL, Sept. 20, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM) and Sainsbury's today announced they have formed Insights 2 Communication LLP (I²C), a joint venture, which will offer suppliers comprehensive multi-channel marketing solutions in and around Sainsbury's stores and online.

I²C will provide Sainsbury's suppliers with a 'one-stop shop' solution to advertise across all of the retailer's communication channels - both targeted and non-targeted. Through a series of licensing and supply agreements with Aimia and Sainsbury's, the joint venture will combine people, intellectual property and tools, and Sainsbury's fast-growing in-house non-targeted communications business. The licensing and supply agreements will be for an initial term of 6 years.

Similarly, the insight and targeted communications services that Aimia currently provides to Sainsbury's suppliers, including access to Self Serve and targeted communications, will also now be provided by the joint venture.

Aimia retains sole ownership of its existing proprietary data analytical tools, including Self Serve. The international operations of Aimia's Intelligent Shopper Solutions (ISS) will not be affected by the creation of the joint venture.

David Buckingham from Aimia has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of I²C and will report to a board comprising: Mike Coupe, Sainsbury's Group Commercial Director; Luke Jensen, Sainsbury's Group Development Director; David Johnston, President and CEO, EMEA, Aimia; and Peter Gleason, Managing Director, Intelligent Shopper Solutions, Aimia. Luke Jensen has been appointed chairman of I²C.

Commenting on the joint venture, David Buckingham said: "From the home to the checkout and beyond, I²C will offer suppliers a tailored advertising solution in and around stores and online. We will help Sainsbury's suppliers to plan, manage and deliver fully integrated campaigns more effectively to the millions of customers who visit Sainsbury's stores or shop online each week."

Luke Jensen, Sainsbury's Group Development Director, said: "The joint venture is a win-win for both customers and suppliers. This means more timely, relevant and accessible offers for customers based on their likes and dislikes, while brands benefit from an end-to-end insight based marketing solution and greater return on investment."

David Johnston, President and CEO EMEA, Aimia said: "The launch of I²C is testament to the growing interest in shopper marketing, targeting customers in and around stores. Coupled with our data-driven approach, we believe I²C will deliver better experiences for shoppers and greater ROI for suppliers who will benefit from the integrated solution I²C offers."

About Aimia

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Media Advisory - Aimia to hold 2012 Investor Day

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 14:31:00 -0400

MONTREAL, Sept. 17, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM) will hold an Investor Day in Toronto to showcase its global operations on Thursday, September 20, 2012. The details of the event are:

Date:	Thursday, September 20, 2012
Time:	9:00 - 4:00 pm ET
Telephone:	1-866-539-4133, Passcode 15674052
Webcast:	http://event.on24.com
Replay:	An archived audio webcast will be available at: www.aimia.com within 24 hours of the original broadcast.
Slides:	A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the webcast will be available the morning of September 20th, 2012 at: www.aimia.com.

About Aimia

Aimia, a Global Leader in Loyalty Management, Named to 6th Annual “CMI 25” List by Corporate Meetings & Incentives Magazine

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Montreal, Canada (September 17, 2012) – Aimia has been named to the 2012 “CMI 25” list, the annual directory of the largest and most influential full-service meeting and incentive travel management companies focused on the corporate meetings and events industry. The list has been compiled by Penton Media's Corporate Meetings & Incentives® magazine since 2007, and Aimia and the company’s predecessor Carlson Marketing have received the honor since its inception.

“Aimia understands what motivates the individual, and understands that companies need to apply that thinking to employee incentive and motivation programs,” said Fay Beauchine, President, Business Loyalty. “As evidenced by this award, and by our recent acquisition of Excellence in Motivation, Aimia is focused on strengthening and expanding our employee engagement and loyalty offerings, particularly in the U.S., a fast-growing market for employee incentive programs.”

As a global leader in loyalty management services, Aimia helps clients get closer to their employees, channel partners and customers. Through data-driven insight, Aimia designs, develops and deploys innovative strategies, communications, training, events, and rewards & recognition programs for some of the world’s best known brands.

In 2011, Aimia developed 102 incentive travel programs for its clients and helped produce 710 corporate meetings. According to Corporate Meetings & Incentives, as meetings and incentive programs climb to pre-recession levels, many companies are looking for outside help.

“The $145 billion corporate meetings and events industry relies on independent meeting and incentive companies for their experience and creativity, and, increasingly, their understanding of the processes and technology tools to implement strategic meetings management programs,” said Sue Hatch, executive editor of Corporate Meetings & Incentives. The CMI 25 list will be published in the September 2012 issue of Corporate Meetings & Incentives and appears on www.meetingsnet.com.

The magazine’s editors selected CMI 25 companies based on several factors, including the number of meetings and incentive travel programs managed in 2011 and the total number of room nights represented by those meetings and incentives. They also evaluated the number of full-time employees at each company, as well as the percentage of the company’s revenues that came from organizing corporate meetings and incentives, versus association meetings or other sources.

About Aimia
Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a U.S.-based private company operating in merchant-funded transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking. Aimia is a Canadian public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM) and has over 3,400 employees in more than 20 countries around the world. For more information about Aimia, please visit www.aimia.com. Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/aimiainc.

Contact: John Vignolo
Phone: (212) 277-3742
E-mail: John.Vignolo@edelman.com

Nectar and Tragus Partnership Creates New Meal Deal

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Nectar points will be able to be exchanged for payment towards meals in Bella Italia, Café Rouge and Strada restaurants nationwide, following the creation of a new partnership between the UK’s largest loyalty programme and one of the UK's largest independently owned restaurant operators; Tragus Group.

The partnership, which will commence a phased roll-out programme from 10th September, allows Nectar collectors to spend their points as part of or for a whole meal and drinks at any one of 287 restaurants around the country. Unlike many other popular restaurant deals, Nectar points can be redeemed directly in the restaurant by swiping a Nectar card avoiding the need to pre-request and print vouchers.

James Frost, Marketing Director at Nectar said; “Teaming up with Bella Italia, Café Rouge and Strada gives all of our 18.5million Nectar collectors the chance to easily reward themselves at these great restaurants through the direct access to their points. This partnership is yet another way we hope to bring additional benefits to all of our loyal collectors, providing them with enjoyable ways to use their Nectar points.”

Jemima Bird, Marketing Director at Tragus Group said; “This partnership means our customers can enjoy even greater value meals at our restaurants using their Nectar points. It's a unique partnership and we look forward to working with Nectar as we roll this out across the UK.”

The initial launch phase of the national roll-out begins on 10th September with ten restaurants. All remaining restaurants will be fully engaged in the partnership from 31st October 2012. Customers can go to www.nectar.com for full details on how to enjoy meals with Tragus restaurants using Nectar points.

Nectar has over 18.5 million collectors earning Nectar points at partners including Sainsbury’s, Homebase, BP and British Gas. In addition, points can be earned at over 500 online partners including Amazon and eBay through Nectar eShops. Other partners where collectors can spend their points include Vue Cinemas, Argos, easyJet and Eurostar.

For more information, please visit www.nectar.com.

For further information, contact:

Nectar: James Regal or Katy Jameson at Clarion Communications
0207 343 3108 / 3142 jregal@clarioncomms.co.uk / kjameson@clarioncomms.co.uk
Tragus: Charlotte Winsley at Brunswick Group on 0207 404 5959 Tragus@Brunswickgroup.com

About Nectar

Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

About Tragus

Tragus www.tragusgroup.com
Tragus Group Limited (“Tragus”) is one of the largest casual dining restaurant chain operators in the UK, with 298 sites across the country serving over 21 million meals every year. Tragus operates primarily under the Café Rouge, Bella Italia and Strada formats in the UK.

Café Rouge (126sites), www.caferouge.co.uk
Café Rouge is the UK’s only established national French restaurant brand, with sites designed to provide the look and feel of a classic Parisian bistro and a menu that includes steak frites, moules and tarte tatin. Café Rouge is predominantly a high street brand but it also operates successfully within a retail and concessionary environment.

Nectar Unwraps Partnership with Oxfam

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 08:00:00 -0400

Today the UK’s largest loyalty programme, Nectar, and leading UK charity Oxfam launch an innovative new partnership. The partnership commences with an opportunity for Nectar collectors to spend their points to buy gifts from Oxfam Unwrapped – Oxfam’s poverty busting gift ideas that help to change lives around the world.

Available to purchase at nectar.com from 1,000 points to 5,400 points, Nectar will have ten gifts available to buy including:

Share in a farmyard
Feed a family
Give girls a head start
School supplies
Chickens
Care for mums
Educate a child
Goat
Teach a teacher
Safe water for 10 people

This is just the first stage in the partnership between Nectar and Oxfam with further opportunities being explored to work together in 2013.

Commenting on this latest addition to the Nectar programme, James Frost, Nectar’s Marketing Director, says: “We’re delighted to be launching a new partnership with Oxfam. At Nectar, we know that our collectors are hugely responsive to partnerships and opportunities that they truly believe in and we’re confident that this latest partnership will be positively received. We look forward to deepening this relationship with exciting and innovative new opportunities in the months to come.”

Rick Lay, Oxfam Unwrapped manager adds: “We're really excited about this unique partnership with Nectar, where collectors are being given the opportunity to use their points to buy gifts that can really make a difference to people's lives. It's very likely that this is the first time that people will be able spend their Nectar points on goats and chickens! These purchases will go a long way to help support Oxfam’s work around the world giving people the resources and skills to help their family and community overcome poverty.”

This partnership is part of Nectar’s continued drive to encourage positive behaviour change, building on existing opportunities for collectors to earn points for reusing carrier bags at Sainsbury’s, switching to paperless billing with British Gas or recycling with Birmingham City Council.

For further information, contact:

Emma Dennis, Fishburn Hedges
020 7839 4321
emma.dennis@fishburn-hedges.co.uk

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com.

Oxfam GB is affiliated to Oxfam International, a global confederation of 15 independent Oxfams which share the same purpose. Visit www.oxfam.org.uk

About Oxfam Unwrapped
Oxfam Unwrapped is Oxfam’s range of charity gifts and this year marks its 9th anniversary. Oxfam Unwrapped gifts are used in Oxfam’s programme work in communities living in poverty around the world. The purchaser receives a card to pass on to the recipient of the gift who can then go online to learn about the big difference their gift has made. Since its launch in 2004, Oxfam Unwrapped has raised £65 million for Oxfam and funded projects in more than 60 countries

Aimia Acquires Excellence in Motivation

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 08:00:00 -0400

Acquisition expands Aimia's full suite product portfolio and geographic presence in the U.S. market

MONTREAL and DAYTON, OH, Aug. 28, 2012 /CNW/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM), a global leader in loyalty management headquartered in Montreal, Canada, today announced that it has entered into an agreement to purchase Excellence In Motivation Inc. (EIM), a privately-owned U.S.-based full-service performance improvement and business loyalty solutions provider, for approximately US $28 million. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close by the end of September 2012. The acquisition will be financed with cash on hand.

The acquisition is part of Aimia's global growth strategy, which includes investing in opportunities that complement its business, accelerating its presence in the U.S. market. The transaction will strengthen Aimia's presence in key vertical markets, including automotive, healthcare, pharmaceutical, high tech and telecommunications. While building Aimia's geographic footprint coast to coast, the acquisition of EIM will increase the breadth and depth of Aimia's business loyalty product and client portfolio.

"EIM is a great addition to the Aimia family as we continue to look for opportunities to increase our presence in the U.S. market," said Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive of Aimia. "The acquisition complements our Business Loyalty division in the U.S. and offers opportunities for organizational growth and increased market share."

Founded in 1993, EIM is a leading performance improvement company aimed at positively changing behaviors of employees, channel partners and customers. Originally conceived as a traditional full service performance company, EIM was an early innovator of web-based solutions for clients. Today, EIM utilizes cutting-edge technology solutions to help clients maximize productivity, reduce costs and increase employee engagement. EIM also specializes in sales and channel partner programs that have grown revenues and increased market share for its clients. EIM has over 200 employees based in offices in Dayton, OH and Los Angeles, CA with sales presence across the U.S.

"By joining the Aimia family, our clients will benefit from an expanded full suite of loyalty solution capabilities and increased sector-specific loyalty marketing expertise," said EIM President and CEO, Bob Miller. "We can also leverage Aimia's global footprint and capabilities to help our clients execute on a global scale. Together, Aimia and EIM will enable our corporate clients to engage employees, energize channels, and ultimately build loyalty among customers."

In connection with this transaction, CIBC acted as a financial advisor to Aimia and Bentley Associates acted as a financial advisor to EIM.

About Aimia

Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a U.S.-based private company operating in merchant-funded transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Such statements may involve but are not limited to comments with respect to Aimia's and EIM's strategies, expectations, planned operations, future actions, anticipated financial performance and business prospects. Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are based on assumptions and are subject to important risks and uncertainties. Any forecasts or forward-looking predictions or statements cannot be relied upon due to, amongst other things, changing external events and general uncertainties of the business and its corporate structure. Results indicated in forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results for a number of reasons, including without limitation, dependency on top accumulation partners and clients, conflicts of interest, greater than expected redemptions for rewards, regulatory matters, retail market/economic conditions, industry competition, Air Canada liquidity issues, Air Canada or travel industry disruptions, airline industry changes and increased airline costs, supply and capacity costs, unfunded future redemption costs, failure to safeguard databases and consumer privacy, changes to coalition loyalty programs, seasonal nature of the business, other factors and prior performance, foreign operations, legal proceedings, reliance on key personnel, labour relations, pension liability, technological disruptions and inability to use third party software, failure to protect intellectual property rights, interest rate and currency fluctuations, leverage and restrictive covenants in current and future indebtedness, uncertainty of dividend payments, managing growth, credit ratings, as well as the other factors identified in this news release and throughout Aimia's public disclosure record on file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities.. Material factors and assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a projection or forecast are also set out throughout this document. We believe that the expectations represented by our forward-looking statements are reasonable, yet there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The purpose of the forward-looking statements is to provide the reader with a description of management's expectations regarding the matters described in this news release and may not be appropriate for other purposes. The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Aimia's expectations as of August 28, 2012, and are subject to change after such date. However, Aimia disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

The Grange Prize Announces 2012 Shortlist for $50,000 Prize

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 06:30:00 -0400

Four photographers shortlisted from Canada and U.K.; winner to be chosen by public vote

(TORONTO/MONTREAL – Aug. 22, 2012) The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) and Aeroplan, an Aimia company, announce the four finalists for The Grange Prize 2012, the only major Canadian art prize whose winner is chosen by public vote. Two artists from Canada and two from the United Kingdom have been shortlisted to compete for the $50,000 prize. Online voting begins today at www.thegrangeprize.com and is open until 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 30, 2012. The winner will be announced on Nov. 1, 2012 at a public party at the AGO.

Selected by a jury of leading Canadian and British photography experts, the artists on this year’s shortlist share a fascination with the world of images that surround us every day — from fashion editorial and sports photography to landscape images and crime scene documentation.

The Grange Prize 2012 Shortlist:

Jason Evans was born in Holyhead, Wales. His wide ranging photographic practice includes fashion editorial, art photography, online projects, and collaborations with musicians including Caribou, Four Tet, and Radiohead. His online project The Daily Nice features one image per day that makes him smile, with no archive. Evans’ series Strictly, featuring portraits of highly-styled young men on the suburban streets of the U.K., is part of the collection of the Tate.
Emmanuelle Léonard was born in Montréal. A graduate from the Université du Québec à Montréal, she has exhibited widely at the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal, Kunsthaus Dresden and Neuer Berliner Kuntsverein in Germany, and Mercer Union in Toronto. Her works tackle the persuasive nature of the photographic image, questioning such tenets as artistic and legal authority, the nature of evidence, and perceptions of beauty. In 2005, she was the recipient of the Pierre-Ayot Award, presented by the city of Montréal for excellence in visual arts.
Jo Longhurst was born in Essex, U.K. and has gained international recognition for her work, having exhibited in London, Paris, and Berlin, including at Documenta (13), currently on view in Kassel, Germany. A PhD graduate from the Royal College of Art, Longhurst’s work investigates ideas of physical perfection and self-creation, capturing the striking portraits of elite gymnasts and Whippet show dogs in her two primary bodies of work Other Spaces and The Refusal.
Annie MacDonell is a Toronto-based visual artist working in a variety of media. Moving between appropriation, re-animation and deconstruction, her practice includes photography, film, installation, sculpture, and sound. She studied photography at Ryerson's School of Image Arts, followed by an MFA at Le Fresnoy, Studio National des Arts Contemporains, in France. Her photos have been shown at the Art Gallery of Windsor, the AGO, The Power Plant, and Le Grand Palais in Paris.

The four finalists were selected by a nominating jury led by Sophie Hackett, assistant curator of photography at the AGO, and including Sara Knelman, a London, U.K.-based writer and curator; Charlotte Cotton, a prominent writer and curator; and U.K.-based artist duo Adam Broomberg and Oliver Chanarin.

“These four artists have all made such a strong impact in recent years. By appropriating, re-editing and re-presenting photographic and filmic material, they reinvigorate our relationship with photography,” said Hackett. “All of the nominees have been through a period of intense exhibition activity recently; The Grange Prize will allow each of them a unique opportunity to embark on new research and develop new projects."

The winner will receive a $50,000 cash prize. The three remaining finalists will each receive a cash honorarium of $5,000, dedicated to the research, creation, and production of new work. All four finalists will receive an artist residency, one of the unique features of The Grange Prize compared with other international art competitions. In the coming months, Jason Evans and Jo Longhurst will be joining the AGO’s Artist-In-Residence program in Toronto, and Emmanuelle Léonard and Annie MacDonell will travel to the UK to conduct research and explore new avenues of practice.

To celebrate the four finalists and to introduce the public to these talented artists, exhibitions of their work will be mounted in both Canada and the U.K. The Art Gallery of Ontario will open its exhibition with a public launch party on Sept. 5, 2012. In the U.K., Canada House, in London’s Trafalgar Square, will celebrate the opening of its exhibition with a reception on Sept. 27, 2012. Voting stations will be on site in each location to allow visitors to vote in person. Both exhibitions will be on view until Jan. 6, 2013.

Each year, The Grange Prize nominates two photographic artists each from Canada and a partner country. Previous winners include Gauri Gill of India (2011), Canadian photographer Kristan Horton (2010), Marco Antonio Cruz of Mexico (2009) and Canadian photographer Sarah Anne Johnson (2008).

Updates, blog posts and more information about The Grange Prize can be found at www.thegrangeprize.com.

The Grange Prize is generously supported by The Canada Council for the Arts.

Programming Highlights for Grange Prize 2012

Grange Prize 2012 Public Launch Party
Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012 6:30 – 9:30 pm
Walker Court at the Art Gallery of Ontario
Free

Join the four shortlisted artists and jurors Sophie Hackett, Sara Knelman, and Charlotte Cotton for a celebration launching The Grange Prize 2012 exhibition at the AGO. Curated by Sophie Hackett, lead juror and assistant curator of photography at the AGO, the exhibition, which runs Sept 5. 2012 to Jan. 6, 2013, will feature works from all four finalists. Featuring a set by DJ Jaime Sin, video content, a cash bar, and presentations by each of the jurors, the launch is free to the public.

The Grange Prize 2012 Dialogues: Questions of Context: The Artists and Jurors in Conversation
Friday, Sept. 7, 3 – 6 p.m.
Weston Family Learning Centre at the AGO
Members $10/Public $12/Students$8

Join us for the first of two stimulating panel discussions with the artists and jurors of The Grange Prize 2012. By appropriating existing images, placing familiar photographic genres in new contexts, and pushing the photographic print into the realm of the three-dimensional object, each of the four shortlisted artists is making exciting propositions about photography and its place in our lives today. Go in depth with each of the artists and jurors as they address key questions raised by The Grange Prize Exhibition, and explore the status of photography today. This panel will be moderated by Sophie Hackett, assistant curator, photography, AGO and Dr. Gaëlle Morel, curator, Ryerson Image Centre.

The Grange Prize 2012 Dialogues: The Impact of Art Prizes
Sunday, Oct. 28, 3 - 4 p.m.
Art Toronto at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre
Free with admission to Art Toronto

Join moderator Sara Angel, writer and critic, and panelists Sophie Hackett, AGO assistant curator, photography and lead juror of The Grange Prize 2012; Murray Whyte, art critic for the Toronto Star; the AGO's Turner Prize-nominated Artist-in-Residence Mark Titchner; and Sarah Fillmore, chief curator of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and the curator of the Sobey Art Award, for a wide-ranging discussion about the increasing prevalence of art prizes in Canada and internationally, and their effect, intended or otherwise, on artists, critics, curators, and institutions.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aimia.com or www.aeroplan.com.

ABOUT THE AGO
With a collection of more than 80,000 works of art, the Art Gallery of Ontario is among the most distinguished art museums in North America. From the vast body of Group of Seven and signature Canadian works to the African art gallery, from the cutting-edge contemporary art to Peter Paul Rubens’ masterpiece The Massacre of The Innocents, the AGO offers an incredible art experience with each visit. In 2002 Kenneth Thomson’s generous gift of 2,000 remarkable works of Canadian and European art inspired Transformation AGO, an innovative architectural expansion by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry that in 2008 resulted in one of the most critically acclaimed architectural achievements in North America. Highlights include Galleria Italia, a gleaming showcase of wood and glass running the length of an entire city block, and the often-photographed spiral staircase, beckoning visitors to explore. The AGO has an active membership program offering great value, and the AGO’s Weston Family Learning Centre offers engaging art and creative programs for children, families, youth and adults. Visit ago.net to find out more about upcoming special exhibitions, to learn about eating and shopping at the AGO, to register for programs and to buy tickets or memberships.

May 1–Aug. 26, 2012: Picasso: Masterpieces from the Musée National Picasso, Paris

Oct. 20, 2012–Jan. 20, 2013: Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics and Painting

March 16–June 16, 2013: Revealing the Renaissance: Art in Early Florence

The AGO acknowledges the generous support of its Signature Partners: American Express, Signature Partner of the Conservation Program; and Aeroplan, Signature Partner of the Photography Collection Program.

Media Contacts:

Melissa Prince
Veritas Communications
(416) 482-2669
prince@veritascanada.com

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
(416) 352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

Introducing The UK's Savviest Family

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 10:00:00 -0400

The Stenton family from Yorkshire win national money-saving competition

Today, a HGV driver and his family from Pontefract, Yorkshire, are announced as the UK’s savviest family in 2012, after showcasing their money-saving talents in the national Nectar Savvy Family competition.

Dean and Ashlea Stenton and their two sons Dawson and Ciaran were originally selected from over a thousand hopefuls, to go head to head with six other families in a blogging competition. For six weeks the families kept thousands of readers updated at nectar.com/savvy with advice on how they save money on everything from shopping and days out to holidays and household bills.

Winning Dad, Dean Stenton comments, “We’re completely over the moon to have won. We’ve always shared our advice with friends, but we never thought that thousands of people would want to read about our tips online. There are hundreds of ways to watch those pennies, but the key to finding a good deal is patience – understand the market value of a product or service and then wait for the right price to come up. You should always remember that it’s your money you’re spending, money that you worked hard for, so why not try to get the most you possibly can for it.”

As the country as a whole continues to tighten its belt, people worried about their finances should take heed of some of the Stenton’s top tips and simple advice to help their money stretch further, including:

Save on electricity bills by charging mobile phones, iPods and satnavs in the car on the way to work
Learn the prices of your weekly shopping items and write a list down of all of the everyday, every week items that you buy, and carry it with you to compare prices in stores you visit
When visiting places in the UK, search the website of the local radio station for the area you are visiting for deals and vouchers. Some of these sites also connect to cashback websites
Save water by using toilet bags. These are bags that swell up to occupy up to a litre of water space in your cistern, thus saving water with every flush. Many suppliers give these away for free
The rail companies put their tickets on sale 12 weeks in advance. To get the very best prices check daily once you are 12 weeks away from your travel date

Jasmine Birtles, Nectar Savvy Family competition judge and founder of Moneymagpie.com says: "With family budgets becoming increasingly stretched, it’s encouraging to see that people like the Stentons are so passionate about saving money and wanting to help others do the same. By involving the whole family, they showed that being careful with your finances doesn’t mean you can’t have fun together. It was a very close call in the end, but the Stentons truly deserved to win the 2012 Nectar Savvy Family competition.

“This is the fourth year I’ve judged the Nectar Savvy competition and it’s fascinating to see how the nation’s money-saving skills have evolved, in particular with the almost daily use of online resources and voucher sites. However, many tried and tested traditional household tips dating back years are clearly still very popular.”

Fellow judge James Frost, Nectar Marketing Director, adds: “This year’s competition has been a great success. Not only did we receive more entries than ever before, the final families have been fantastic at getting involved and sharing their intriguing money saving tips with the nation. The economic climate is clearly still taking a hold with more families than ever before wanting to pull together to help each other save money.”

As a reward for all their penny-watching the Stenton family have won a recession-busting prize package that includes four easyJet flights to any destination; a Sainsbury's giftcard worth £500; £500 from BP to spend on fuel; £500 for the family to spend at Vision Express; a free week's car hire in Europe courtesy of Hertz; a year's cover from British Gas on a Home Care policy; a Nintendo Wii console package courtesy of American Express and 50,000 Nectar points.

To read all the Nectar Savvy Family blogs visit nectar.com/savvy

For more information or to speak to the Stenton family please contact

Katy Jameson or James Fick T: 0207 479 0910
nectar.team@ClarionComms.co.uk

Notes to editors:

About Nectar Savvy Family

Nectar Savvy Family 2012 Finalists:

The Stentons, from Pontefract – WINNERS
Dean (42), Ashlea (39) and their two sons Dawson (9) and Ciaran (8)
The Cumbos, from Luton
The Augrandjeans, from Clacton
The Seppings-Palmers, from Hull
The Dingwalls, from East Kilbride
The Yates, from Ambleside
The Drivers, from Worcester

2012 Top Ten Tips (all families)

Ask clothing stores about when sample ranges arrive, these are usually free or at cost. Ask if they'll let you have a look at what's left after the staff have had their pick
Before going anywhere, search for it online but add the word ‘voucher’ or ‘savings’ after it and 9 out of 10 times you'll find a deal
Get a water-butt for outside to collect rainwater for your plants, garden and car-washing, rainwater is FREE and in abundance most of the year
Combine a big, home delivery grocery order with an equally frugal friend or neighbour to cut down on food costs, delivery charges and to reduce your monthly fuel consumption by not driving to the shops
Take unwanted clothes that aren’t fit to sell on ebay to a cash for clothes point. Some units offer up to £1 per kilo
Check out your local college for cheap or even free beauty and hair treatments
Join a community allotment project if you want a taste of growing your own without the commitment of taking on a full plot. All equipment is provided and you can take home fresh produce
If you live close to an airport, sign up to parkatmyhouse.com where you can earn money for renting your driveway or parking space to holiday-makers, or go to the site to find cheap places to park for your own holiday
Ordering a takeaway? Use sites like hungryhouse.co.uk where you can get 20% off your normal takeaway order, just by ordering it via just-eat.co.uk. Enter your postcode, then look out for the red 'discount' icons and you will qualify for 20% discount there too. Go via Nectar eShops and you can earn Nectar points for your takeaway too
Go to your local council website and have a look at their events page. Often there are free or cheap family events listed that you may have otherwise missed out on, especially if you are on holiday in the area

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

In 2012, Nectar is celebrating 10 years of rewarding British shoppers and has given back over £1.7 billion of rewards to collectors, including money off shopping, travel, days out and cinema tickets.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

Calling All UK Charities – Do You Want To Understand Your Data Better...For Free?

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 10:00:00 -0400

UK-Based charities can now be in with a chance of benefitting from the skills and knowledge of experts from the data community who will analyse the charities’ information for free. Conducted by US-based Datakind* the analysis will take place at the UK’s first ever DataDive over 28th-30 September.

DataDives have proved to be a huge success in the US with DataKind bringing together leading data scientists and selected charities to help them uncover the power of using data. The charities are chosen based on the data they have available and their ability to identify a well-defined data problem. Volunteer data scientists tackle the charities data challenges over the course of the DataDive weekend, transforming the data they have been given into insights which will benefit the charities and help them achieve their aims.

DataKind founder Jake Porway said: “We are living inside a data revolution that is transforming the way we understand and interact with each other and the world, and it has only just begun. Data has the potential to make hidden relationships crystal clear, to be a common language between people who might never have spoken, to inspire collaboration, to offer metrics for decision making, and to turn seemingly unrelated ideas into powerful insights that can solve the most complex and intractable problems we face. We have hosted a number of DataDive weekends in the US and we are looking forward to hosting our first UK event in London.”

Any UK-based charities that are interested in better understanding the data they hold and participating in DataKind’s first UK DataDive should complete an online questionnaire and can apply at http://datakind.org/events/londondatadive/.

The DataKind event has been brought to the UK by Aimia, the company that owns Nectar. Aimia’s IT Director, Fiachra Woodman, explained: “Aimia works on behalf of a number of clients around the world helping them understand their data better. Partnering with DataKind gives our data scientists, who are passionate about using their data skills, an opportunity to work with other types of organisations and charities that may not have access to these skills on an ongoing basis.”

The event will take place at the Hub Westminster, London.

*DataKind was formerly known as Data Without Borders”

For further information, please contact: contact@datakind.org
Gabrielle de Wardener on 020 7152 6621 or at Gabrielle.deWardener@aimia.com
Ania Krwawicz on 0207 152 6869 or at Ania.Krwawicz@aimia.com

About DataKind:
DataKind (formerly known as Data Without Borders) brings together leading data scientists with high impact social organizations through a comprehensive, collaborative approach that leads to shared insights, greater understanding, and positive action through data in the service of humanity. DataKind is a community of pioneering data scientists with the talent, commitment, and energy to open the door and show us the way.

About Aimia:
Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management, has unique capabilities and proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. In the UK, Aimia owns and operates Nectar, the UK’s largest loyalty programme. Aimia also offers world-class data analytics through its Intelligent Shoppers Solutions suite of tools and has a minority position in Cardlytics, a pioneer of transaction-driven marketing in banking. For more information, please visit: www.aimia.com.

Aimia declares dividends

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 18:02:00 -0400

MONTREAL, Aug. 9, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia (TSX: AIM) announced today that the Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share, payable on September 28, 2012 to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 14, 2012.

The Board has also declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.40625 per Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series 1, payable on September 28, 2012 to the holders of record at the close of business on September 14, 2012.

Dividends paid by Aimia to Canadian residents on both its common and preferred shares are "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes.

About Aimia

Aimia reports strong second quarter results

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 18:01:00 -0400

Record Results in Canadian and European Regions Drive Quarterly Performance

Canadian region delivers another strong quarter as it continues to benefit from solid operating leverage
EMEA posts strongest results ever based on solid performance from Nectar UK
2012 guidance confirmed


SECOND QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS	Three Months Ended June 30,		Year Over Year³
(in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)	2012	2011	% Change
	As Reported		As Reported	Constant Currency¹
Gross Billings	554.3	542.4	2.2	1.7
Total Revenue	504.2	507.6	(0.7)	(1.2)
Net Earnings	34.9	15.3	128.8	na
Earnings per Common Share	0.19	0.07	171.4	na
Adjusted EBITDA²	102.0	76.9	32.7	32.5
Free Cash Flow before Dividends Paid²	74.2	81.5	(9.0)	na

¹	Constant currency excludes the translation effect of foreign operations on consolidated results. For more information on constant currency please refer to the Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information section of this news release.
²	A non-GAAP measurement, please refer to the Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information section of this news release.
³	Discrepancies in variances may arise due to rounding.

MONTREAL, Aug. 9, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - (TSX: AIM) Aimia today reported its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2012. All financial information is in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

"I'm extremely pleased with our performance in the quarter" said Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive. "Our Canadian business posted another strong quarter while EMEA achieved its fourth consecutive quarter of double digit top line growth, reflecting solid results from Nectar UK as it continues to benefit from the growth in its partner base over the past couple of years. The strong performance posted by our European operations was achieved despite the ongoing challenges of a very difficult economic environment. Based on the strength of our first half performance we are confirming our guidance for the year."

Second Quarter Highlights (Period ended June 30, 2012 versus period ended June 30, 2011)

Consolidated - A Strong Quarter

Second quarter Gross Billings of $554.3 million, an increase of 2.2 per cent or 1.7 per cent on a constant currency basis
Adjusted EBITDA of $102.0 million in the quarter, an increase of 32.7 per cent
Record Adjusted EBITDA mainly due to significant margin expansion

Canada - Operating Leverage Drives Performance

Second quarter Gross Billings of $332.0 million compared with $324.1 million in the same period of 2011, an increase of 2.4 per cent
Gross Billings rose in the second quarter driven by an increase in financial partner activity partially offset by a decrease in airline partner activity including a reduction in accumulation at Air Canada
Adjusted EBITDA of $106.4 million in the second quarter, an increase of 21.8 per cent compared to the prior year period
Aeroplan Miles issued increased by 4.4 per cent in the quarter due to increased promotional activity, while total Aeroplan Miles redeemed decreased 0.6 per cent in the quarter compared to the same period in 2011

Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) - Fourth Consecutive Quarter of Double Digit Gross Billings Growth - Strong Momentum Continues

Second quarter Gross Billings of $157.6 million, an increase of 14.4 per cent or 13.7 per cent on a constant currency basis
Adjusted EBITDA of $12.3 million in the quarter, an increase of $10.2 million
Nectar Points issued in the second quarter increased by 13.4 per cent compared to the same period in 2011, driven by strong underlying growth at Sainsbury's, British Gas, and Homebase, and new contract terms with the program's main sponsor
Redemption activity for the Nectar Program increased by 14.2 per cent in the quarter mainly driven by an increase in the number of Nectar Points in circulation
In the second quarter, Nectar Italia Points issued remained relatively constant year-over-year, while Nectar Italia points redeemed increased significantly consistent with members having increased availability of points in their accounts due to the program's growth
Gross Billings for Intelligent Shopper Solutions (ISS) increased by 14.0 per cent driven by increased activity related to the international expansion of its services

US & Asia Pacific - Stabilized - US Environment Continues to be Challenging

Second quarter Gross Billings of $65.6 million, a decrease of 19.0 per cent or 21.2 per cent on a constant currency basis compared to the same period 2011. Excluding the impact of the Qantas exit, Gross Billings were down 5.0 per cent or 7.7 per cent on a constant currency basis
Second quarter Adjusted EBITDA of $(0.5) million, virtually unchanged
The US continues to be a challenging environment, however, the region is making good strides in terms of stabilizing, repositioning and focusing on higher value-add strategic loyalty services

Club Premier - Update
Club Premier continues to perform exceptionally well. It generated Gross Billings of more than US$36 million this quarter, an increase of 26 per cent over last year. Adjusted EBITDA margins remain in excess of 30 per cent. Year-over-year, the number of members and commercial partners has increased by 10 per cent and 22 per cent, respectively. Aimia and Aeromexico have initiated discussions with the intent of Aimia increasing its equity participation in PLM. While there can be no assurances that an agreement will be reached, the parties will seek to reach an agreement by the end of 2012.

Cash Flow and Financial Position
At June 30, 2012, Aimia had $200.3 million of cash and cash equivalents, $21.5 million of restricted cash, $73.1 million of short-term investments and $283.9 million of long-term investments in bonds, for a total of $578.8 million.

Aimia's Free Cash Flow (before dividends paid) was $74.2 million for the second quarter of 2012 compared to $81.5 million for the second quarter of 2011. Free Cash Flow in the quarter decreased year over year primarily due to timing of changes in net operating assets, higher cash taxes and higher capital expenditures.

Dividends Declared
Common Shares
The Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share, payable on September 28, 2012 to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 14, 2012.

Preferred Shares
The Board also declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.40625 per Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series 1, payable on September 28, 2012 to the holders of record at the close of business on September 14, 2012.

Dividends paid by Aimia to Canadian residents on both its common and preferred shares are "eligible dividends" for Canadian income tax purposes.

2012 Outlook

While it is likely that the higher than forecasted Gross Billings growth rate experienced in the first half of the year in the EMEA region will slow in the second half, EMEA is on track for a strong year and is compensating for some top line softness in the Canada and US & APAC business segments. As a result, we are reiterating our 2012 annual guidance provided in the February 22, 2012 earnings press release.

Guidance (as provided February 22, 2012)
For the year ending December 31, 2012, Aimia expects to report the following:


Key Financial Metric	Target Range
Consolidated Outlook
Gross Billings Growth¹	Between 3% and 5%
Adjusted EBITDA²	Between $370 and $380 million
Free Cash Flow^2,3	Between $220 million and $240 million
Capital Expenditures	To approximate $55 million
Income Taxes	Current income tax rate is anticipated to approximate 27% in Canada and 17% in Italy. The Corporation expects no significant cash income taxes will be incurred in the rest of its foreign operations.
Business Segment Gross Billings Growth Outlook
Canada	Between 2% and 4%
EMEA	Between 8% and 11%
US & APAC¹	Between -2% and 2%
Other
Nectar Italia	Greater than €60 million in Gross Billings

¹	The Gross Billings growth guidance excludes the effect of a client loss (Qantas) in APAC at the end of the first quarter of 2012. The target growth ranges are based on 2011 reported Gross Billings, excluding $40 million related to Qantas. The client loss will have a negligible impact on Adjusted EBITDA.
²	The Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow outlook range includes an assumption of planned incremental operating expenses in business development activities, principally in the U.S., India and Brazil, technology platform related expenditures that are operating in nature and additional brand related expenses associated with our new branding, which in total will approximate $20 million in 2012.
³	Free Cash Flow before dividends.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
In order to provide a better understanding of the results, the following indicators are used:

Adjusted Net Earnings
Adjusted Net Earnings provides a measurement of profitability calculated on a basis consistent with Adjusted EBITDA. Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation are adjusted to exclude Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology, share of net earnings (loss) of PLM and impairment charges. Adjusted Net Earnings includes the Change in deferred revenue and Change in Future Redemption Costs, net of the income tax effect and non controlling interest effect (where applicable) on these items at an entity level basis.

Free Cash Flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities, as reported in accordance with GAAP, less adjustments for:

	(a)	total capital expenditures as reported in accordance with GAAP; and

	(b)	dividends, when stipulated, unless deducted in arriving at cash flows from operating activities.

Q2 2012 Conference Call / Audio Webcast
Aimia will host a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2012 financial results at 8:00 a.m. ET on Friday, August 10, 2012. The call can be accessed by dialing 1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450 for the Toronto area. The call will be simultaneously audio webcast at:
http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/891071/950077

A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of August 9, 2012 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx and an archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

The audited consolidated financial statements, the MD&A and a financial highlights presentation will be accessible on the investor relations website at:
http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

About Aimia

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Forward-looking statements are included in this news release. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Such statements may involve but are not limited to comments with respect to strategies, expectations, planned operations or future actions.

The forward-looking statements contained herein represent Aimia's expectations as of August 9, 2012, and are subject to change after such date. However, Aimia disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

SUMMARY OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS AND RECONCILIATION OF EBITDA, ADJUSTED EBITDA, ADJUSTED NET EARNINGS AND FREE CASH FLOW


			Three Months Ended June 30,		Six Months Ended June 30,		%?
*(in thousands, except share and per share information)*			2012 $	2011^(f) $	2012 $	2011^(f) $	Q2	YTD
Gross Billings			554,302	542,418	1,090,938	1,070,298	2.2	1.9
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units			414,026	388,203	800,010	750,942	6.7	6.5
Revenue from Loyalty Units			366,645	345,387	784,860	724,239	6.2	8.4
Revenue from proprietary loyalty services			107,771	136,807	230,228	276,445	(21.2)	(16.7)
Other revenue			29,817	25,408	56,870	53,126	17.4	7.0
Total revenue			504,233	507,602	1,071,958	1,053,810	(0.7)	1.7
Cost of rewards and direct costs			(279,900)	(297,737)	(602,296)	(625,353)	(6.0)	(3.7)
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization ^(a)			224,333	209,865	469,662	428,457	6.9	9.6
Depreciation and amortization			(8,543)	(8,096)	(17,005)	(15,916)	5.5	6.8
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			(20,820)	(22,893)	(41,615)	(46,222)	(9.1)	(10.0)
Gross margin			194,970	178,876	411,042	366,319	9.0	12.2
Operating expenses			(141,064)	(139,484)	(281,995)	(277,465)	1.1	1.6
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			20,820	22,893	41,615	46,222	(9.1)	(10.0)
Operating income before amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			74,726	62,285	170,662	135,076	20.0	26.3
Depreciation and amortization			8,543	8,096	17,005	15,916	5.5	6.8
EBITDA^(a)(c)			83,269	70,381	187,667	150,992	18.3	24.3
Adjustments:
	Change in deferred revenue
		Gross Billings	554,302	542,418	1,090,938	1,070,298
		Revenue	(504,233)	(507,602)	(1,071,958)	(1,053,810)
	Change in Future Redemption Costs^(b)		(31,337)	(28,343)	(16,532)	(18,355)
		(Change in Net Loyalty Units outstanding x Average Cost of Rewards per Loyalty Unit for the period)
Subtotal of Adjustments			18,732	6,473	2,448	(1,867)
Adjusted EBITDA^(c)			102,001	76,854	190,115	149,125	32.7	27.5
Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			34,852	15,095	80,145	40,523
Weighted average number of shares			172,203,650	180,173,985	173,011,895	182,839,306
Earnings per common share^(d)			0.19	0.07	0.43	0.19
Net earnings attributable to equity holders of the Corporation			34,852	15,095	80,145	40,523
Amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology			20,820	22,893	41,615	46,222
Share of net earnings of PLM			(1,560)	(390)	(2,715)	(6,528)
Adjusted EBITDA Adjustments (from above)			18,732	6,473	2,448	(1,867)
Tax on adjustments^(e)			(423)	(261)	4,865	2,869
Non-controlling interests share on adjustments above			(1,370)	(638)	(1,392)	(767)
Adjusted Net Earnings^(c)			71,051	43,172	124,966	80,452	64.6	55.3
Adjusted Net Earnings per common share^(c)(d)			0.40	0.22	0.69	0.41
Cash flow from operations			85,467	91,155	116,437	76,314
Capital expenditures			(11,277)	(9,643)	(23,933)	(15,955)
Dividends			(30,349)	(29,712)	(59,254)	(55,525)
Free Cash Flow^(c)			43,841	51,800	33,250	4,834	(15.4)	587.8
Total assets			4,900,288	4,914,481	4,900,288	4,914,481
Total long-term liabilities			1,546,811	1,301,667	1,546,811	1,301,667
Total dividends			30,349	29,712	59,254	55,525
Total dividends per preferred share			0.406	0.406	0.813	0.813
Total dividends per common share			0.160	0.150	0.310	0.275

(a)	Excludes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.
(b)	The per unit cost derived from this calculation is retroactively applied to all prior periods with the effect of revaluing the Future Redemption Cost liability on the basis of the latest available average unit cost.
(c)	A non-GAAP measurement.
(d)	After deducting dividends declared on preferred shares.
(e)	The effective tax rates, calculated as income tax expense / earnings before taxes for the period on an entity level basis, are applied to the related entity level adjustments noted above.
(f)	These figures do not include any effect attributable to the change in Breakage estimates made during the fourth quarter of 2011 in the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs.

SEGMENTED INFORMATION

At June 30, 2012, the Corporation had three reportable and operating segments: Canada, EMEA and US & APAC. The table below summarizes the relevant financial information by operating segment:


	Three months ended June 30,
*(in thousands of Canadian dollars)*	2012	2011^(f)	2012		2011^(f)(g)		2012		2011^(f)		2012	2011	2012	2011^(f)	2012		2011^(f)(g)
Operating Segments	Canada		EMEA				US & APAC				Corporate^(b)		Eliminations		Consolidated
Gross Billings	332,000	324,079	157,592	^(c)	137,802	^(c)	65,638	^(c)	81,022	^(c)	-	-	(928)	(485)	554,302	^(c)	542,418	^(c)
Gross Billings from the sale of Loyalty Units	277,218	271,969	136,808		116,234		-		-		-	-	-	-	414,026		388,203
Revenue from Loyalty Units	261,668	261,746	104,977		83,641		-		-		-	-	-	-	366,645		345,387
Revenue from proprietary loyalty services	37,060	46,455	3,123		6,848		67,588		83,504		-	-	-	-	107,771		136,807
Other revenue	12,287	11,672	17,530		13,736		-		-		-	-	-	-	29,817		25,408
Intercompany revenue	3	135	127		82		798		268		-	-	(928)	(485)	-		-
Total revenue	311,018	320,008	125,757		104,307		68,386		83,772		-	-	(928)	(485)	504,233		507,602
Cost of rewards and direct costs	158,662	177,169	87,138		71,969		34,230		48,599		-	-	(130)	-	279,900		297,737
Gross margin before depreciation and amortization	152,356	142,839	38,619		32,338		34,156		35,173		-	-	(798)	(485)	224,333		209,865
Depreciation and amortization ^(a)	23,298	25,079	3,829		3,295		2,236		2,615		-	-	-	-	29,363		30,989
Gross margin	129,058	117,760	34,790		29,043		31,920		32,558		-	-	(798)	(485)	194,970		178,876
Operating expenses before share-based compensation	57,158	56,455	36,638		38,497		31,866		33,347		12,405	8,799	(798)	(485)	137,269		136,613
Share-based compensation	-	-	-		-		-		-		3,795	2,871	-	-	3,795		2,871
Total operating expenses	57,158	56,455	36,638		38,497		31,866		33,347		16,200	11,670	(798)	(485)	141,064		139,484
Operating income (loss)	71,900	61,305	(1,848)		(9,454)		54		(789)		(16,200)	(11,670)	-	-	53,906		39,392
Adjusted EBITDA ^(h)	106,368	87,363	12,291		2,085		(458)		(924)		(16,200)	(11,670)	-	-	102,001		76,854
Additions to non-current assets ^(d)	5,235	5,267	3,946		3,229		2,096		1,147		-	-	N/A	N/A	11,277		9,643
Non-current assets ^(d)	3,222,938	3,291,655	463,006	^(e)	446,243	^(e)	43,275	^(e)	99,876	^(e)	2,213	-	N/A	N/A	3,731,432	^(e)	3,837,774	^(e)
Deferred revenue	1,776,795	1,815,961	472,396		311,589		13,358		12,514		-	-	N/A	N/A	2,262,549		2,140,064
Total assets	3,780,395	3,801,215	922,069		868,164		136,198		202,723		61,626	42,379	N/A	N/A	4,900,288		4,914,481

(a)	Includes depreciation and amortization as well as amortization of Accumulation Partners' contracts, customer relationships and technology.
(b)	Includes expenses that are not directly attributable to any specific operating segment. Corporate also includes the financial position and operating results of our operations in India, the investments in PLM and Cardlytics and Aimia's share of PLM's net earnings (loss).
(c)	Includes third party Gross Billings of $127.1 million in the UK and $39.3 million in the US for the three months ended June 30, 2012, compared to third party Gross Billings of $113.4 million in the UK and $46.8 million in the US for the three months ended June 30, 2011. Third party Gross Billings are attributed to a country on the basis of the country where the contractual and management responsibility for the customer resides.
(d)	Non-current assets includes amounts relating to goodwill, intangible assets and property and equipment.
(e)	Includes non-current assets of $411.9 million in the UK and $36.8 million in the US as of June 30, 2012, compared to non-current assets of $395.7 million in the UK and $94.3 million in the US as of June 30, 2011.
(f)	Intercompany revenue and expenses related to the comparative period have been reclassified to conform with the presentation adopted in the current period.
(g)	These figures do not include any effect attributable to the change in Breakage estimates made during the fourth quarter of 2011 in the Nectar and Air Miles Middle East programs.
(h)	A non-GAAP measurement.

/R E P E A T -- Media advisory - Aimia to present second quarter 2012 results/

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 09:30:00 -0400

MONTREAL, July 19, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) will issue its second quarter 2012 financial results during the evening of Thursday, August 9, 2012 and hold a conference call and webcast on Friday, August 10, 2012 at 8:00 a.m. ET to discuss the results. Rupert Duchesne, Group Chief Executive Officer, and David Adams, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will be available to address analysts' questions. Media and interested participants may access this call on a listen-only basis. The details of the conference call are as follows:

Date:	Friday, August 10, 2012

Time:	8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET

By telephone:	1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450
	Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:	English - http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/891071/950077

	French - http://www.newswire.ca/fr/webcast/detail/891077/950085

	Note: this is a listen-only audio webcast. Media Player or Real Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:	An archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:	A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of August 9, 2012 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

Aeroplan Accessorizes with new Bentley Partnership

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 09:30:00 -0400

More than 300 partner locations across Canada set to offer Aeroplan Miles

Montreal, QC, August 7, 2012 – Aeroplan today announced it has entered into a multi-year agreement with Bentley, Canada's largest specialty retailer for luggage, handbags, backpacks and travel accessories. Bentley carries top brands such as: Samsonite, Swiss Gear, Air Canada, Mancini, Adidas, Reebok, Roots, JanSport, Tracker and more. This agreement will allow Aeroplan Members to earn Aeroplan Miles in an additional retail category at more than 300 stores across Canada including retail outlets in major shopping malls and airport locations.

Starting today, members will be able to earn 1 Aeroplan Mile for every $1 spent on all eligible purchases on items such as luggage, handbags, backpacks, briefcases, sport duffle bags, wallets, and related accessories.

“We’re excited to welcome Bentley, a well-known and respected Canadian brand to our growing roster of retail partners,” said Kevin O’Brien, Chief Commercial Officer, Aeroplan. “This announcement is yet another stepping stone in Aeroplan’s strategy to offer more opportunities to our members when it comes to earning Aeroplan Miles.”

In addition, Bentley will exclusively fulfill Aeroplan’s luggage portfolio on aeroplan.com in which members will be able to use their miles for Bentley products. Members will also be able to use their miles on Bentley gift cards. For details on these rewards, please visit www.aeroplan.com/myrewards.

To celebrate the launch of the partnership, Aeroplan Members can earn 3X the miles between August 12, 2012 and September 8, 2012 on instore purchases of $50 or more.

For more information, please visit: www.aeroplan.com.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aimia.com

Dom Joly Celebrates Ten Years Of Nectar

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Nectar, the UK’s largest loyalty programme, will celebrate its 10th birthday in September with an interactive PR and social media campaign fronted by TV comedian Dom Joly as he helps to say thank you to as many of Nectar’s 18.5million card holders as possible.

The campaign will launch this week on Nectar.com and through the Nectar Facebook page (www.facebook.com/nectar) and Twitter feed (www.twitter.com/nectar) asking the community to suggest fun and interesting ways in which Dom could personally thank them for their support over the last ten years.

Some of the best ideas put forward by members of the public will be brought to life during the main activation stage of the campaign, when Dom will take to the road for a multi-city tour of the country. The tour will take place over the long weekend of 14-16th September and will be supported by ongoing national and regional PR as well as social media activity.

James Frost, Nectar Marketing Director, says: “With our 10th birthday being such a momentous milestone we want to ensure that we mark the occasion by thanking our cardholders who have made the first ten years possible.

“By bringing Dom Joly on board to help us celebrate we’ll be adding quirkiness, fun and a touch of mischievous Dom Joly humour to the proceedings, all of which should create a unique and interactive way of thanking our loyal card holders.”

Dom Joly’s involvement in the Nectar 10th birthday celebrations is the first activity to be announced in a multi channel marketing campaign, which will be activated throughout 2012. Further detail on other activity will be announced in the coming weeks.

For further information, contact:

James Regal or Katy Jameson at Clarion Communications
0207 343 3108 / 3142 jregal@clarioncomms.co.uk / kjameson@clarioncomms.co.uk

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

In 2012, Nectar is celebrating 10 years of rewarding British shoppers and has given back over £1.7 billion of rewards to collectors, including money off shopping, travel, days out and cinema tickets.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East. For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

Never-Before Seen Deals on Cars & Scooters Mark Launch of "Nectar Daily Deals"

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 11:00:00 -0400

Nectar, the UK’s largest loyalty programme, launches Nectar Daily Deals, a new initiative that offers daily discounted deals on products and services from some of the nation’s best loved brands, as well as hidden local gems. Nectar has secured exclusive deals that range from dining to homeware, gadgets, travel and electronics helping people save cash whilst also allowing them to earn Nectar points.

To celebrate the launch, there will be a selection of amazing one-off deals including Piaggio scooters for less than half price at £1,000 and Ford Ka cars, normally sold at £8,725, for less than half price.

Nectar Daily Deals (www.nectardailydeals.com) is launching with national and London-specific deals while deals for other cities will be launched over the remainder of 2012 and throughout 2013.

Customers can subscribe to Nectar Daily Deals to receive one daily email containing all relevant local, national and Nectar specific deals. Nectar cardholders earn 100 bonus points just for signing up (until the end of August) and will also earn 2 points for every £1 spent on a deal. Non Nectar cardholders can also subscribe to the service and make purchases, however they will need to register with Nectar at www.nectar.com should they wish to collect points. Nectar Daily Deals is not limited to those who subscribe to the service… anyone can browse or purchase deals without having to provide their email address.

Nectar Daily Deals has agreed to comply with and champion the code of conduct put in place by the Global Daily Deals Association which means:

All deals offered will be fulfilled, regardless of consumer uptake, as Nectar Daily Deals does not rely on the group buying mechanic adopted by some sites
Units available will be clearly outlined
Items will be despatched within the delivery timeframe specified
A ‘no quibble’ seven day money back guarantee will be available
A ‘streetview’ function on location maps has been added (where possible) so that customers have visibility of an establishment before purchasing a service
One in ten of all deals offered by Nectar Daily Deals will be at 60% discount

James Frost, Nectar Marketing Director, says: “We’re always looking at new ways to help cardholders earn more points through new partnerships and initiatives and Nectar Daily Deals is an exciting new addition to the programme.

“We’re able to call upon our wide range of over 500 partners in order to offer great discounts on products and services from well known and trusted brands. There’s also the added benefit that our 18.5 million cardholders can collect two points for every pound spent on their Nectar Daily Deals purchases, so they’ll be saving even more money in the long run.”

Following the launch in London, the service will be rolled out to an additional four major UK cities (Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow and Nottingham) in the autumn of this year, with more to follow later in the year and throughout 2013.

For further information, contact:

James Regal or Katy Jameson at Clarion Communications
0207 343 3108 / 3142 jregal@clarioncomms.co.uk / kjameson@clarioncomms.co.uk

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

Media advisory - Aimia to present second quarter 2012 results

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 09:30:00 -0400

MONTREAL, July 19, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) will issue its second quarter 2012 financial results during the evening of Thursday, August 9, 2012 and hold a conference call and webcast on Friday, August 10, 2012 at 8:00 a.m. ET to discuss the results. Rupert Duchesne, President and Chief Executive Officer, and David Adams, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will be available to address analysts' questions. Media and interested participants may access this call on a listen-only basis. The details of the conference call are as follows:

Date:	Friday, August 10, 2012

Time:	8:00 - 9:00 a.m. ET

By telephone:	1-888-231-8191 or 647-427-7450
	Please allow 10 minutes to be connected to the conference call.

Webcast:	English - http://www.newswire.ca/en/webcast/detail/891071/950077

	French - http://www.newswire.ca/fr/webcast/detail/891077/950085

	Note: this is a listen-only audio webcast. Media Player or Real Player is required to listen to the broadcast.

Replay:	An archived audio webcast will be available at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Presentations-and-Events/Events/default.aspx for ninety days following the original broadcast.

Note:	A slide presentation intended for simultaneous viewing with the conference call will be available the evening of August 9, 2012 at: http://www.aimia.com/English/Investors/Financial-Reports/Quarterly-Reports/default.aspx.

Aeroplan Gets Mobile with Enhanced App

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 09:30:00 -0400

Goal setter designed for members to set travel goals and track progress

Montreal, QC, July 17, 2012 – Aeroplan today introduced the latest version of its mobile app for iPhone and iPad (iOS) devices. The app is designed to enhance and extend the core functionality of its mobile web site (mobile.aeroplan.com) and is distributed via the Apple App Store. Soft launched in February, 2012, the app was rated in the top 10 for both iPad Travel and iPod Travel apps at the Apple app store and has already surpassed download targets of more than 150,000 to date.

“The goal of Aeroplan’s mobile app is to increase member awareness and engagement with the program while extending the online Aeroplan experience,” said David Klein, Vice President, Marketing & Innovation, Aeroplan. “The app helps reinforce our brand and provides key insight into member mobile usage which will guide our future mobile strategy and development.”

The app now includes the following functionalities:

Goal setting functionality with notification engine - The Goal setter feature is designed to help members set travel goals by defining their own destination, track their progress as they accumulate miles by participating in the program and receive timely and relevant tips along the way to help them reach their dream goal faster;
Account management (Members can view their account history, transactions etc.);
Partners and Promotions listings;
Partner locator map that pinpoints partners based on members’ exact location;
A virtual Aeroplan Card;
Contact section including Air Canada Top Tier priority contacts.

“The goal setter is a unique addition to the app,” added Klein. “For example, a member can set a goal for a trip for two to Sydney, Australia, the member can use the app on a regular basis to review progress and discover helpful hints and promotional offers designed to help them reach the goal amount sooner.”

Today, Aeroplan also launched the “Aeroplan Mobile App Travel Goal” contest in which members can win 1 out of 3 prizes of 200,000 miles simply for setting up a travel goal on Aeroplan’s app until August 31, 2012. Visit aeroplan.com for more details.

To download Aeroplan’s app, please visit: www.aeroplan.com/mobileapp.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com

Aeroplan and Air Canada reach an agreement to transfer pension plan assets and obligations to Aeroplan

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 08:45:00 -0400

Montreal, QC, JUNE 27, 2012 – Aeroplan today announced that it has reached an agreement with Air Canada through which Air Canada will transfer to the Aeroplan defined benefit pension plan all the pension plan assets and obligations related to pension benefits accrued by employees who were Air Canada or Canadian Airline Customer Sales & Service Agents prior to 2009 and who transferred to Aeroplan in 2009. The transfer is subject to approval by the Office of the Superintendant of Financial Institutions (OSFI) and will take effect thereafter. OSFI is expected to rule on the transfer in the next 18 to 24 months.

The transfer will simplify the administration of the defined benefit pension plan for Aeroplan and its eligible employees and will not result in Aeroplan assuming a material unfunded pension obligation on the basis of the most recent actuarial valuation report.

Aeroplan will continue to fund the plan in accordance with the funding requirements of applicable pension legislation.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com

Trish Moran
Aimia
416-352-3728
trish.moran@aimia.com

Nectar and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead announce partnership to incentivise positive behaviour amongst residents

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 10:00:00 -0400

25 June 2012: Today, Nectar and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead announce the launch of a pilot scheme aimed at incentivising positive behaviour amongst residents across the borough.

Following a successful pilot run in partnership with Birmingham City Council, Nectar will work with the Royal Borough to pilot the scheme which will reward residents with Nectar points for a variety of activities, including:

Switching to easier methods of Council Tax payments – The Royal Borough aims to make it as easy as possible for residents to pay their council tax. Now, residents will be able to collect up to 1,000 Nectar points if they switch to more efficient, environmentally friendly methods of receiving and paying Council Tax bills.
Volunteering – The Royal Borough is working in partnership with Windsor and Maidenhead Voluntary Action (WMVA) to encourage residents to volunteer. Residents will be awarded 1,500 Nectar points for registering with WMVA and an additional 1,000 points each time they begin a new volunteer placement.
Adopt-a-street - Adopt-a-Street gives residents the opportunity to help keep the Royal Borough clean and tidy. Residents simply choose the area they want to ‘adopt’ and the Council provides them with the necessary tools to take part. Adopt-a-Street has been in operation since 2009, but residents will now be incentivised to sign-up and take part. They will be able to collect 500 Nectar points when they register with Adopt-a-Street and an additional 1,000 Nectar points each time they tidy their ‘adopted area’.

Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, said:
"Up and down the country local authorities are working hard to make each pound they spend go further for their residents. Incentives are an important part of that, helping drive innovation and efficiency savings through services.
"Windsor and Maidenhead are once again showing their pioneering approach to incentives. Building on the success of their recycling rewards deal, this new voluntary scheme is a great way to get local people more involved in their community by rewarding residents for their participation - proving that carrots really do work better than sticks."

Will Shuckburgh, Nectar’s Client Services Director, said:

“At Nectar we know Collectors and Partners love getting behind initiatives they believe in, with millions being rewarded for reducing plastic bag usage by Sainsbury’s or switching to paperless billing by British Gas. It’s really exciting to see the public sector now using Nectar points as a proven tool to effectively drive positive behaviour in the community. This has already been done in partnership with Birmingham City Council, rewarding recycling or more active lifestyles through leisure centre usage. Now the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is looking at an even wider range of positive behaviours. It’s really innovative thinking we know our Collectors will support.”

Cllr David Burbage, Leader of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, said:

“As a Big Society vanguard council, we are constantly looking for new and different ways of encouraging residents to get involved in their local communities and we are really excited by this innovative pilot.

“By joining forces with Nectar we are giving residents well-deserved recognition for helping others, and making our borough a great place to live. And, by changing the ways they manage their Council Tax, residents can also help make our borough greener as well as saving Council Tax payers’ money by enabling us to cut paper bills.“

The pilot with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead will launch in July, However, residents can register their interest in the scheme now and ensure that they receive all further information at launch by visiting rbwm.gov.uk/web/nectar.

Nectar’s partnership with Birmingham City Council is now in a period of assessment, but initial results are positive and it is hoped that this scheme will become a permanent initiative.

For further information, please contact:
Nectar: Megan Ratcliffe, megan.ratcliffe@aimia.com (020 7152 4881)
Emma Dennis, Emma.Dennis@Fishburn-Hedges.co.uk (020 7544 3049).

Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead: Cllr David Burbage, Council Leader, cllr.burbage@rbwm.gov.uk (01628 796322) or Andrew Elkington, Head of Policy and Performance, andrew.elkington@rbwm.gov.uk (01628 796025)

About Nectar
Nectar, the United Kingdom’s leading coalition loyalty programme, is owned by Aimia, a global leader in loyalty management.

Nectar was awarded the “Best card-based loyalty programme” at the 2012 Loyalty Awards for Europe and the Middle East.

For more information about Nectar, please visit: www.nectar.com

About the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is a vanguard local authority for the Big Society. It is recognised nationally as a cutting edge council that is prepared to pilot new approaches to service delivery and resident involvement.

The council’s over-riding principle is that residents must come first in everything it does. This is reflected in its Big Society projects which are built on resident involvement, of which volunteering for council and other services is a central part. The result have included an expansion of library services and opening times – against the national trend – the opening of a brand new museum in Windsor and a national first scheme in conjunction with WRVS to reward residents who volunteer to provide low level care for older and vulnerable people in the community.

Recognized Strategy Expert Joins Aimia’s U.S. Leadership Team

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 15:00:00 -0400

Jay Lee expertise solidifies Aimia’s leading loyalty management position in the marketplace

MINNEAPOLIS, June 21, 2012 – Liz Graham, Aimia’s President & CEO for the U.S. and Asia Pacific regions is pleased to announce the appointment of Jay Lee to the newly established role of Chief Strategy Officer, U.S. Joining Aimia from American Express OPEN, where he led New Business Development, Lee brings to Aimia deep expertise in business development, product management and technology as well as a strong track record of building strategic partnerships and driving new product development.

With, proven capabilities in strategic consulting and technology solutions, Lee will enhance and complement Aimia’s team of loyalty experts and contribute his insight to driving success for Aimia’s clients and emerging areas of growth across all key industry verticals.

At American Express, Lee built innovative partnerships for OPEN’s small business owners and expanded the business footprint into alternative payment transactions and financing, emerging distribution channels, and next-generation marketing capabilities. Prior to American Express, he launched multiple and highly successful card products and partnerships for such well-known brands as General Electric and FleetBoston. Lee previously held leadership roles at Mitchell Madison Group and JP Morgan.

“Jay’s experience in strategic planning and business development are a great advantage to Aimia’s current and emerging client groups. Our U.S. team is very excited to begin working with Jay, and are confident our clients will benefit greatly from his breadth of loyalty management skills,” said Graham.

About Aimia
Aimia Inc. ("Aimia") is a global leader in loyalty management. Aimia's unique capabilities include proven expertise in delivering proprietary loyalty services, launching and managing coalition loyalty programs, creating value through loyalty analytics and driving innovation in the emerging digital and mobile spaces. Aimia owns and operates Aeroplan, Canada's premier coalition loyalty program and Nectar, the United Kingdom's largest coalition loyalty program. In addition, Aimia has majority equity positions in Air Miles Middle East and Nectar Italia as well as a minority position in Club Premier, Mexico's leading coalition loyalty program and Cardlytics, a US-based private company operating in merchant-funded transaction-driven marketing for electronic banking.

Aeroplan Welcomes Avianca-TACA and Copa Airlines as its Newest Travel Partners

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 09:30:00 -0400

Montreal, QC, June 21, 2012 – Aeroplan today announced the addition of Avianca-TACA and Copa Airlines to its roster of travel partners. Starting today, Aeroplan Members can accumulate and redeem Aeroplan Miles for travel with both airlines, bringing the total number of airline partners to 33.

“We are very pleased to be adding Avianca-TACA and Copa Airlines to Aeroplan’s expansive network of premium airlines and providing our members more opportunities to earn miles or book reward flights to Latin America, one of the world’s most attractive emerging travel markets,” said David Houston, Vice President, Partnerships, Aeroplan.

Avianca-TACA, a Star Alliance member, offers the widest network in Latin America with services to more than 100 destinations in the Americas and Europe, offering connections to more than 750 destinations in the world through partner airlines around the globe. Its multi-hub operations offer travel options through Bogotá, San Salvador, Lima and San Jose.

Copa Airlines is also a Star Alliance member and is one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, with more than 290 daily scheduled flights among 63 destinations in 29 countries carried out with an average on-time performance above 90% and one of the youngest and most modern fleet in the Americas. Through its hub in Panama City, Copa Airlines is able to consolidate passenger traffic from multiple points and provides unique service to many destinations such as Santiago de los Caballeros in Dominican Republic, Asuncion in Paraguay and Guanacaste, Costa Rica and Iquitos, Peru from June/July 2012.

About Aeroplan
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, is owned by Aimia Inc., a global leader in loyalty management.

Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 75 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.

For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com or www.aimia.com.

For more information, please contact:

Christa Poole
Aeroplan
416-352-3745
christa.poole@aeroplan.com